NFL Trade Rumors: Colts Reportedly Looking to Deal Dwight Freeney

The look of the Indianapolis Colts is continuing to change, as all signs are pointing to a much different team in 2012. After releasing Peyton Manning earlier in the week, Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that the Colts will be fielding offers for defensive end Dwight Freeney. 

"

Filed to ESPN: Colts are fielding telephone calls from teams interested in trading for perennial Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2012"

What It Means

As if there was any doubt after a 2-14 season and the release of Manning, the Colts are firmly in rebuilding mode. Manning is gone, Reggie Wayne is a free agent with one foot out the door and the defensive face of the franchise is being shopped. 

As far as what it means for the rest of the league, a very good pass-rusher just became available on the trade market. In 10 NFL seasons, he has racked up 102.5 sacks and forced 43 fumbles along the way. 

This is an elite pass-rusher. Any team that had a problem getting to the quarterback a season ago just got a tremendous player to target through trade.

What's Next

Freeney will generate a lot of interest. Throwing specific teams out there would be purely speculative at this point, but there aren't many teams in the league that can afford to not pursue this deal. 

If you're trying to think about who would go after him, ask yourself if the team in question plays a 4-3. If they do, then Freeney would be a good fit. If not, then his skills don't really fit into the system. 

But there are still many teams in the league that need the blindside edge rusher. That role can really boost a team's defense, giving opposing offenses limited time to set up plays

Long story short, if the Colts are willing to deal him, watch out for a bidding war. After the war is over, Indianapolis should have a good offer for the star defensive end. 

Follow @mdixon1985