The Indianapolis Colts continue to trend upwards thanks to the progression of Andrew Luck over the past few years. The quarterback is clearly the player to take the franchise to the next level, but the Colts must make moves to surround him with the right talent. They appear to be doing just that with free agency just hours away. After saying goodbye to the likes of Reggie Wayne and Hakeem Nicks, the Colts are preparing to bring in some big names.
According to Houston radio host Lance Zierlein of SportsTalk 790, the Colts are gearing up to sign both Andre Johnson and Frank Gore in the coming hours. Indianapolis has been looking for talent to place alongside Luck for the coming seasons and both players certainly fit that mold. The Colts lose talent like Wayne and Nicks in free agency, leaving them with very little at the wide receiver position while Trent Richardson's struggles are forcing running back upgrades.
Johnson told ESPN following his release from the Houston Texans that he wants to sign with a team that has an established and talented quarterback. The New England Patriots were considered a frontrunner for the veteran, but is appears the Colts could be taking the lead. Johnson wants to win a championship before his career is over in the next few years. He would be a solid veteran replacement for Wayne while pairing nicely with TY Hilton.
Gore has had the attention of the Philadelphia Eagles after they traded away LeSean McCoy. It was believed a deal was in place as ESPN was reporting the former San Francisco 49ers running back was headed to Philly. However, the Colts swooped in with what could be a bigger contract and appear to be winning Gore over. There are plenty of rumors saying Richardson is preparing to be released as a cap casualty which means there is a great need for Gore in the offense.
After the Colts add some playmakers to the offense, the next step will be to give Luck the next big quarterback contract. It was reported earlier in the offseason that Luck and the Colts had begun preliminary discussions and a deal was expected to be reached some time before the 2015 season begins.
