Josh Sweat Trade is at the center of one of the biggest storylines in the NFL right now.
The Indianapolis Colts are among the teams interested in trading for Arizona Cardinals pass rushing edge Josh Sweat, who had 12 sacks last season in his first year with Arizona. More on this story in our Roster Moves and Trades coverage.
Josh Sweat’s Productive Season
Sweat had a highly productive season in 2025, recording 30 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 12.0 sacks, 47 total QB pressures, 4 forced fumbles, 2 passes defensed, and a fumble recovery during all 17 starts for the Cardinals defense. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection, and he is now being courted by several teams, including the Colts. Data from Over The Cap puts this deal in broader context.
The Colts’ Pass Rush Needs
The Colts have added veteran Arden Key as a potential starting replacement for Paye and Ebukam, but they are also counting on former Colts’ 2025 2nd round pick Jaylahn Tuimoloau to have a clear jump in his development entering Year 2. However, Tuimoloau only played in limited action as a rookie last season with 0 sacks, and the Colts may not be willing to rely on him as their primary pass rusher. Sweat would be a significant upgrade, but the question is whether the Cardinals would be willing to trade him and what their asking price would be.
The Cardinals’ decision to move on from head coach Jonathan Gannon, with whom Sweat had a close relationship, may have contributed to Sweat’s unhappiness with his current situation. Sweat’s absence from the Cardinals’ voluntary OTAs is not injury-related, suggesting that he may be seeking a pay raise or a change of scenery. The Colts, who have a history of making bold moves to upgrade their roster, may be willing to take a chance on Sweat and provide him with the opportunity to thrive in a new environment.
The Trade Possibilities
While the Cardinals have received trade calls on Sweat, it is unclear whether they are willing to trade him. The Colts, who have a strong roster and a solid coaching staff, may be an attractive destination for Sweat, but they would need to convince the Cardinals to part with their star pass rusher. The trade would likely involve significant draft picks or players, and the Colts would need to weigh the costs and benefits of acquiring Sweat.
As the Colts consider their options, they must also think about the potential impact of Sweat on their roster. With Sweat on board, the Colts would have a formidable pass rush, and their defense would be significantly upgraded. However, they would also need to consider the financial implications of trading for Sweat, who is still under contract with the Cardinals.
In the end, the Colts’ decision to trade for Sweat will depend on their evaluation of his value and the Cardinals’ willingness to trade him. As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, the Colts and Cardinals will be closely watched, and the fate of Josh Sweat will be a major storyline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Josh Sweat’s current contract situation?
Josh Sweat signed a 4-year, $76.4 million contract with the Cardinals last offseason. He has not reported to the Cardinals’ voluntary OTAs, fueling speculation about his future with the team.
Why are the Colts interested in trading for Josh Sweat?
The Colts are looking to upgrade their pass rush after losing Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam in free agency. Josh Sweat would be a significant upgrade, and the Colts may be willing to trade for him to improve their defense.
What would be the potential impact of Josh Sweat on the Colts’ roster?
With Josh Sweat on board, the Colts would have a formidable pass rush, and their defense would be significantly upgraded. However, they would also need to consider the financial implications of trading for Sweat, who is still under contract with the Cardinals.
The question now is whether the Colts will be able to convince the Cardinals to trade Sweat, and what the terms of the trade would be. As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, the Colts and Cardinals will be closely watched, and the fate of Josh Sweat will be a major storyline. Will the Colts be able to land Sweat and upgrade their pass rush, or will they have to look elsewhere to address their defensive needs?