Musings of An Old Sportswriter

On re-signing Gardner Minshew, accountability and the NFL Coach of the Year candidates.

The Indianapolis Colts have a load of free agents heading into this offseason, notably Kenny Moore II, Michael Pittman Jr, Julian Blackmon, Grover Stewart and others.  But there’s one who’s more important than the others, and you’re going to think I’m crazy for the following statement.

It's Gardner Minshew.

Would Minshew, who is on a one-year deal, sign an extension if offered? I haven’t an earthly idea.

Would the Colts be interested in signing him to an extension? I haven’t an earthly idea.

But in the Season of the Backup Quarterback, a season when the Colts are only in a playoff race because they signed the best backup in the league, it makes sense to me for Indy to do whatever is necessary to retain him through next year and the years beyond.

Insurance isn’t cheap.

Especially at the most important position in sports.

His market value next year? Figure about $5-6 million a season, probably a two-year contract. Currently, he’s making $3.5 milliion, and he’s been worth every penny. It’s not like the Colts can’t afford that insurance policy, especially with Anthony Richardson on his rookie contract.

But why wouldn’t be proactive about bringing him back? Worst case, he’s your starter should Richardson get injured again. Best case, he’s a tremendous mentor to Richardson, who will be repeating his rookie season next year.

Now, for all I know, Minshew may enter free agency with the idea of finding himself a starting job somewhere, and for that, he can’t be blamed in the least. He’s proven that while he’s a middling-at-best starter in this league, he can start and he can be successful. He hasn’t been great for the Colts, but he’s made just enough winning plays to put his team in a position to win the AFC South. Like his team at large, Minshew finds a way.