Chuck Pagano questions timing of Colts moving Nelson, Buckner

Chuck Pagano called the Indianapolis Colts' decision to trade Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner a major shock. The former head coach spoke on Countdown To Kickoff on Saturday.

The franchise moved both players on Tuesday. The Seahawks acquired guard Quenton Nelson. The 49ers took defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. The Colts received a 2027 third round pick and a 2028 fifth round pick for Nelson. They received a 2027 fourth round pick for Buckner.

Pagano rated his surprise level at a nine on a scale of ten. He noted that the team just played a strong game against the Vikings despite losing. He argued that waiting to develop a better market might have yielded a stronger return. He pointed out that Tennessee received two first round picks and a fourth round pick for Jeffery Simmons. Pagano said Buckner has played three more years than Simmons and maintains comparable statistics.

The former coach questioned why the organization would trade two captains with their names on banners at Lucas Oil Stadium while still in second place in the AFC South. He believed the team could have secured more than a fourth round pick for Buckner had they waited.

The Colts are 2-5 and travel to Jacksonville on Sunday to face the Jaguars. The Jaguars are 4-2 and lead the division. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. The Colts aim to secure their first win in Jacksonville since 2014.