In 2021, the Indianapolis Colts were surprisingly in the mix to acquire quarterback Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions. This revelation came to light when Stafford himself mentioned on the “New Heights” podcast that he spent time browsing Zillow for houses in Indianapolis, indicating that the Colts were a potential destination for him ¹.
At the time, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that Stafford would be traded to the Los Angeles Rams, which ultimately did happen. However, it’s fascinating to think about how different the NFL landscape could be if Stafford had ended up with the Colts instead.
Stafford’s departure from the Lions was a result of a mutual decision to part ways. He had spent 12 seasons with the team, leading them to several playoff appearances and earning a reputation as one of the most talented quarterbacks of his generation ².
The Rams, who were looking to upgrade their quarterback position, ultimately sent two first-round picks, a third-round pick, and quarterback Jared Goff to the Lions in exchange for Stafford. The trade was widely seen as a coup for the Rams, who went on to win Super Bowl LVI with Stafford under center.
Meanwhile, the Colts were left to ponder what could have been. They ultimately signed quarterback Carson Wentz to a two-year deal, but his tenure with the team was short-lived. The Colts have continued to search for stability at the quarterback position, and one can’t help but wonder if Stafford could have provided that stability if he had ended up with the team.
In hindsight, it’s clear that the Colts were a serious suitor for Stafford’s services. While we can’t know for certain how things would have played out if he had signed with the team, it’s fun to imagine an alternate reality where Stafford is leading the Colts to victories instead of the Rams.