Any sensible NFL mind will say the best way to make a rookie quarterback successful is give them enough weapons. The Indianapolis Colts haven't completed that mission yet, but would they if they took LeGarrette Blount from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?
Donald Brown is not viewed as a full-time back for Andrew Luck
The Colts brass said they wanted to rebuild around a new quarterback with Peyton Manning gone, but something like that must always start with a massive roster purge. Gone are veteran talents like Pierre Garcon, Dallas Clark, and Joseph Addai. Indianapolis hasn't gone under a facelift. It's a completely different team aside from two or three names. That is the Andrew Luck effect. The team wants their first overall draft pick to take over from where Manning left off. Apparently they forgot that to do that they need to get him some help. Aside from the 34-year-old Reggie Wayne and rookie tight end Colby Fleener, the Colts don't have much firepower on paper. The most glaring hole on the offensive roster is at running back, where the unpredictable Donald Brown joins three no-names. Given the state of the offensive line, the Indianapolis Colts can't afford to trot their future on the field without a running game. While free agent options include Cedric Benson and Ryan Grant, a more direct action could include an unlikely trade.
Doug Martin deal puts Blount in a tough spot as the starting runner
Teams always deny they're trying to send a message to any player on their roster when they draft in the first or second rounds, but fans know better. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers weren't happy with LeGarrette Blount last season. It might sound shocking since he piled up over 900 yards and five touchdowns on offense while averaging 4.2 yard per carry. However, his history of problems in the locker room and off the field have worn down the front office patience and won't stick with new head coach Greg Schiano. That's likely why the Buccaneers scooped up some insurance in Boise State running back Doug Martin. Tampa Bay recently locked him up with a five-year contract and, whether they'd admit it or not, put Blount on notice that his time runs low. If they wish to avoid a media problem, which is possible given Blount's history, the front office might want to field trade offers. One team that would love the 25-year-old is the Colts. Their need for a power runner who can take pressure off Luck makes Blount a perfect match if the two sides could find a fair price. Indianapolis still has pass rushers like Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis that the Buccaneers could sorely use after losing Da'Quan Bower to an Achilles tear. Otherwise, there's always draft picks.
Andrew Luck may lead the Indianapolis Colts, but until he has more weapons, he needs help at running back Donald Brown can't carry the load alone. Since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers drafted Doug Martin, perhaps it's time to ask whether a trade for LeGarrette Blount can happen. NFL history says it's very possible.
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