Colts HC Steichen on Lamar Jackson Trade: 'We Do Our Due Diligence on Every Player'

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen remained vague when asked about the team's possible interest in quarterback Lamar Jackson.

"We do our due diligence on every player, whether it's in free agency or the draft," he told reporters Monday.

The comment came after Jackson announced he had requested a trade from the Baltimore Ravens:

On March 20, ESPN's Stephen Holder reported the Colts "did not rule out having discussions with Jackson" but cautioned Indianapolis "has not taken any substantive steps regarding Jackson, and it is unclear whether it intends to do so."

The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec followed up four days later to report there wasn't any evidence showing the Colts or another theoretical suitor had made a tangible effort toward negotiating a deal.

Purely in terms of need, the Colts are one of the most sensible destinations for Jackson.

They've had a revolving door at quarterback since Andrew Luck's unexpected retirement ahead of the 2019 season. Leaning on experienced veterans has provided steadily diminishing returns, with the Matt Ryan trade quickly turning into an unmitigated disaster.

By acquiring Jackson, Indianapolis could get the long-term continuity it desperately needs at the position.

The team can also achieve that aim with another route, though, albeit one that doesn't land a proven solution.

The Colts have the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft next month. Even if they don't trade up, they'll still be in a position to get one of Alabama's Bryce Young, Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Florida's Anthony Richardson or Kentucky's Will Levis.

Jackson represents a more sure thing, while swinging and missing on a quarterback with a top-five pick can set a franchise back years.

However, trading for Jackson would carry a significant cost in terms of his next contract and the assets going to Baltimore. A top-tier QB on a rookie deal can be worth his weight in gold, meanwhile, because a team has so much flexibility to strengthen other areas of the roster.

Look at how the Miami Dolphins have aggressively upgraded their squad around Tua Tagovailoa over the past two offseasons.

In the end, the Colts might prefer that approach in the hope Steichen is a coach perfectly suited to help a young passer develop at the next level.