How the Colts signing QB Gardner Minshew impacts draft plans

The Indianapolis Colts addressed the quarterback position in free agency by signing Gardner Minshew to a one-year deal, but how might that impact their plans in the 2023 NFL draft?

It has been widely expected that the Colts will be among the teams in the first round targeting a quarterback prospect. Holding the No. 4 overall pick, which is behind the quarterback-needy Carolina Panthers (No. 1) and Houston Texans (No. 2), it’s likely the Colts will get a crack at the third quarterback off the board.

That doesn’t mean they quarterback they go after won’t be their personal QB1 in the draft. There’s very much a real scenario where the first two quarterbacks off the board aren’t the prospect the Colts have at the top of their rankings.

Signing Minshew shouldn’t change the approach the Colts have in the draft, which all signs point to selecting a quarterback. If anything, the signing should give them more conviction to go get the player they want.

Having Minshew on the roster is a strong addition. He’s been working with Shane Steichen for two full seasons, he’s a great teammate and he can step in at a productive level if need be.

But if the Colts feel convicted about one or more of the quarterback prospects, Misnhew’s presence shouldn’t keep them from going to get the player they want even if it’s likely the highest they can move up now is No. 3 overall.

Regardless, signing Minshew gives the Colts a strong option as the bridge quarterback to a rookie if he needs more time to develop, and the transaction shouldn’t keep Indy from selecting a quarterback with their first-round pick.

Keep up to date with the latest news, signings and rumors through our free agency tracker for the Colts.

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