The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly looking to trade away cornerback Kenny Moore. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the two sides have agreed to mutually seek a trade.
With Moore providing such a stabilizing presence in the secondary for so many years, why are the Colts now looking to move on from him in what is a make-or-break season for Chris Ballard and Shane Steichen?
Let’s explore how the Colts and Moore might have ended up here.
The Colts are bullish on Justin Walley
Justin Walley was quite impressive during last summer’s training camp and appeared to be on his way to earning meaningful snaps. Unfortunately, a knee injury would end his season before it started. However, the Colts remain excited about what he can add to the defense. In what is a crowded cornerback room, getting Walley snaps with Moore on the roster would have been challenging, but now he can be the starting nickel cornerback.
“Walley, he’s a guy that can play inside, play outside for us. Fiesty, sticky in coverage,” Shane Steichen said earlier this offseason.
Kenny Moore is in the final year of his deal
The 2026 season is the final year of Moore’s current deal. He is potentially looking for some longer-term security, but with the Colts wanting to get Walley on the field, Indianapolis probably isn’t looking to extend him, which could have factored into both sides seeking a trade. This gives the Colts the opportunity to get something in return, rather than letting Moore walk in free agency next offseason.
Scheme fit
According to ESPN’s Stephen Holder, the decision to seek a trade is “partly a scheme fit issue.” In Year 1 under Lou Anarumo, Moore allowed 12.6 yards per catch after allowing 9.3 yards or fewer the previous two years. His ball production dropped as well, as he logged just one interception and three pass breakups. Moore was also penalized six times after being penalized two or fewer times in three of the previous seasons, according to PFF.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 3 reasons Colts and CB Kenny Moore are seeking a trade
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
