The latest Indianapolis Colts free agency rumors have the team targeting a new veteran wide receiver before the 2026 season. ESPN’s Stephen Holder believes the team is still “mulling” to add another WR to pair with Alec Pierce and Josh Downs. After trading away Michael Pittman Jr., it makes sense that the team would want to address the receiving corps. Not only that, but the Colts are expected to be without Pierce well into this year’s training camp as the receiver is still recovering from surgery.
Despite receiving a new extension, the team is still holding its breath in hopes that their top wideout is available for Week 1. While he’ll be ready, there’s reason to believe that he won’t be fully healthy 100%. The team added Nick Westbrook-Ikhine in free agency in a low-stakes acquisition and an unproven Ashton Dulin. If the Colts want success this season, they should add a receiver, especially with QB Daniel Jones returning for the next two years leading this offense.
Head Coach Shane Steichen is looking for consistency in the team’s aerial attack, and it’s hard to find that, particularly in the free agent market. While they will explore there first, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team trades for a WR to address the depth concerns. If the team wants to bring themselves a legitimate chance for a deep run in the postseason, here are the best four options for them this summer.
Colts Free Agency Rumors: 4 Star Options on the Radar
Best WR Fits
Deebo Samuel, Free Agency
By bringing in someone experienced like Deebo Samuel, it’s easy to see why he would fit into this offense. When you have a veteran QB in Jones, expect this WR to thrive as a reliable slot threat and assist Josh Downs in situational moments. He has the speed, agility and hands to turn this offense from good to great. Despite him having a few injury issues, he’s still an exciting all-around playmaker that can find his groove again in an offense that is still for a boost.
Keenan Allen, Free Agency
Meanwhile, here’s a veteran with length that could help Jones sling the football up in the air. This would make it easier for this offense to allow Pierce and Downs to prioritize speed. Allen is much older, but after recording 81 catches for 777 yards and four touchdowns, he still has some gas left in the tank. He won’t exceed 1,000 receiving yards, but if the Colts want a receiver who fights for the ball in man-to-man coverage, Keenan Allen might be their guy.
Xavier Legette, Trade
If the Colts don’t like what they see in free agency, they could turn to trade for a WR. They’d have enough to acquire Xavier Legette, who’s still on a rookie contract. He’s still under a cost-controlled deal that allows the WR to find his rhythm in this offense. The Carolina Panthers wouldn’t demand a big return as they just signed Jalen Coker to a new contract and brought in Chris Brazzell via the NFL Draft.
This means the team is actively monitoring the trade market for Legette. This would even be the perfect opportunity for Legette to restart with an AFC team.
Kayshon Boutte, Trade
Here’s where things can get pricier for the Colts, but it’s doable. If the team truly wants to get Jones and their offense to end their playoff drought, Kayson Boutte is the ultimate choice. After the Patriots traded for AJ Brown and signed Romeo Doubs this offseason, there really isn’t room for Boutte to grow anyway. In a room behind Downs and Pierce, Boutte is bound to win at least the WR2 job.
