Kenny Moore II has become an integral part of the Indianapolis Colts secondary since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017. However, with the veteran set to turn 31 next season, both sides have mutually agreed to explore a trade.
Moore initially signed with the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2017 before being waived and claimed by the Colts. He has since developed into one of the league’s top cornerbacks, with his best season coming in 2021. That year, he recorded 102 tackles, four interceptions, 13 pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one sack, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
In 2025, Moore finished with 55 tackles, six passes defended, one interception, one touchdown, and three tackles for loss. He is entering the final year of the three-year, $30 million contract he signed ahead of the 2024 season, making this a logical time for both sides to move on.
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ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the decision on Friday, writing, “Sources: Colts and Kenny Moore II have mutually agreed to seek a trade and a new home for the veteran cornerback. Moore is entering the last year of his contract, and both sides feel it is time to explore a trade.”
Moore’s performance declined last season, as his overall PFF grade of 66.7 ranked 39th among cornerbacks. He also allowed 12.6 yards per catch, a notable increase after allowing 9.3 yards or fewer in each of the previous two seasons. With a $13.11 million cap hit for the 2026 campaign and his age becoming a factor, this presents a strong opportunity for the Colts to move on and secure value rather than risk losing him in 2027 free agency.
Colts Could Turn to Justin Walley as Next Starter
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Last year, the Colts selected Justin Walley with the 80th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Minnesota, with the expectation that he would develop behind Moore. He was coming off an impressive college season, allowing a 41.8 percent completion rate and a 57.8 passer rating, though he had missed a high number of tackles as well.
Walley impressed during training camp and appeared poised to earn meaningful snaps before a season-ending knee injury cut short his rookie year even before the season began.
In a crowded cornerback room, opportunities may have been limited, but with Moore's 715 snaps likely to come off the field, Walley could step into a starting role, with ESPN's Stephen Holder noting that he will be asked to step up as the slot corner.
That confidence in Walley appears to be a key factor in the decision. Head coach Shane Steichen spoke highly of him earlier this offseason, saying, “Walley is a guy who can play inside and outside for us, feisty and sticky in coverage.”
Across four seasons at Minnesota, Walley recorded 155 tackles, seven interceptions, 27 pass breakups, one sack, and four tackles for loss. He will now look to build on that production at the NFL level when he makes his debut in September.
