The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Trade Deadline Madness! Sauce Gardner to the Colts, Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys, and more

24 snips
Nov 4, 2025
Diana Rossini, an NFL reporter and insider, joins to unpack a whirlwind of trades leading up to the 2025 deadline. She reveals why the Jets' shocking moves—trading Sauce Gardner to the Colts and sending Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys—signal a significant roster overhaul. The discussion dives into whether these trades reflect the Colts' long-term strategy or a bid for a championship window. Diana also shares surprises from the deadline, including near-moves and the value dynamics of various trades that left fans scratching their heads.
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INSIGHT

Colts Signal Win-Now With Sauce Gardner

  • The Colts paid two first-round picks to acquire Sauce Gardner because they view him as a cost-controlled, immediate impact corner for a real Super Bowl window.
  • That trade signals Indianapolis likely commits to Daniel Jones as their quarterback moving forward and prioritizes win-now upgrades.
ADVICE

Take Elite Draft Capital When Rebuilding

  • If you're a rebuilding team, accept elite draft capital offers for single players even after recent extensions.
  • Two first-round picks for Sauce Gardner was a deal the Jets had to take given their 1- record.
INSIGHT

High Cost Of Immediate Defensive Upgrades

  • Trading two first-round picks for a corner risks long-term roster replenishment and depth if the team falters in the playoffs.
  • The move can be justified only if the Colts truly believe this offense can be complemented by margin upgrades on defense.
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