The Athletic's NFL insiderJonathan Jones recently listed several "too early trade deadline candidates," and among them was Indianapolis Colts' defensive tackle Grover Stewart.
Jones didn't provide any specific details about Stewart, but did say that he -- along with several other players -- is someone to keep an eye on after speaking with several sources. But for now, "it's quiet," as Jones put it, referencing the list of trade candidates.
Latest What I’m Hearing column is live at @TheAthletic. Leading with insights into the Joey Porter Jr. trade, here’s what else you can find in this gift link https://t.co/KWR7S6HaQd pic.twitter.com/wQ9JL8xs4A
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) October 3, 2026
On paper, one can see why Stewart's name was brought up. A veteran player, on the final year of his deal,
and playing for a team that could be on the outside looking in at the AFC playoff picture.
That said, this is a must-win season for GM Chris Ballard -- the Colts have to get to the playoffs. And trading Stewart doesn't accomplish that. In fact, the defense would be significantly worse without his presence in the middle.
This year's NFL trade deadline is after Week 9, and with still nine games left in the season at that point, the Colts aren't going to do anything to hurt their playoff chances, even if they find themselves in a difficult spot.
As long as there is still a path, this year's Colts team has to forge ahead in an effort to make the postseason. That's the only option. Trading Stewart doesn't give the Colts the best chance to accomplish that.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Key Colts' defender listed as 'too-early' trade deadline candidate
