NFL Trade Rumors: Eagles' Gardner Minshew Possible Target for Colts in QB Search

The Indianapolis Colts could target Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback Gardner Minshew this offseason if they are unable to land a proven starter, according to Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports.

Minshew has one year remaining on his four-year, $2.7 million contract, so it would be a low-risk move for the Colts.

The Colts need a new starting quarterback after reportedly agreeing to trade Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders. The deal will be finalized once the new league year begins March 16.

After two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Minshew was traded to the Eagles ahead of the 2021 season. He appeared in four games and made two starts for the franchise, completing 68.3 percent of his passes for 439 yards and four touchdowns against one interception.

In 27 career games (22 starts), he has completed 63.2 percent of his passes for 5,969 yards and 41 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. The 25-year-old would undoubtedly be a better option for the Colts than Sam Ehlinger. However, it's not surprising that the franchise currently views him as a plan B.

Indianapolis has been linked to Las Vegas Raiders veteran Derek Carr, San Francisco 49ers signal-caller Jimmy Garoppolo and Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins.

While it's unclear if the Raiders would be open to moving Carr, Garoppolo has been one of the hottest names on the market this offseason as the 49ers look to turn to 2021 third overall pick Trey Lance in 2022.

Garoppolo would be an upgrade for the Colts, but the 30-year-old has struggled with injuries throughout his career and is currently working his way back from shoulder surgery. Making a move for the veteran could be risky, though it could pay off if he can stay healthy.

As for Cousins, the Vikings are "very open" to trading him this offseason, La Canfora reported March 11. He would also be an upgrade for the Colts, but while he's fared well in his Minnesota tenure, he hasn't been able to elevate his game in the postseason.

Indy's search for a new quarterback will only heat up over the next few weeks following Russell Wilson's trade to the Denver Broncos, Aaron Rodgers' decision to remain with the Green Bay Packers and the immense interest in Houston Texans signal-caller Deshaun Watson.