The Seattle Seahawks made a massive splash by acquiring All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson from the Indianapolis Colts, but they weren't the only team knocking on the door. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, and Philadelphia Eagles all "showed varying levels of interest" in the eight-time Pro Bowler.
Seattle sent a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick to Indianapolis in exchange for Nelson, a move that instantly upgrades an offensive line that has struggled to protect Geno Smith and open running lanes. Nelson, 30, is in the final year of his contract, making him a potential rental, but the Seahawks are clearly all-in on a championship push.
A Strong Market for a Star Guard
Fowler noted that Nelson had a "strong" market in his contract year, and it's easy to see why. The former Notre Dame standout has started 77 consecutive games since 2021 and is having a dominant season. Pro Football Focus grades him as the league's third-best guard, and he hasn't allowed a single pressure or sack this year. He's committed just one penalty (a false start) after being flagged only twice in 2025.
The Colts, who selected Nelson with the No. 6 pick in 2018, have signaled a full-scale fire sale, with running back Jonathan Taylor also on the trade block. Indianapolis is clearly looking toward the future, and Nelson's departure marks the end of an era for a player who has been the anchor of their offensive line.
Why Seattle Needed This Deal
The Seahawks' offense has slipped from eighth to 15th in total yards this season, and they're averaging just 3.9 yards per carry without Kenneth Walker III. They've also allowed 16 sacks in seven games, a glaring weakness that Nelson should help shore up immediately.
Seattle's NFC West rivals are taking notice. Jordan Schultz reports that teams expect the San Francisco 49ers to "respond" with a trade of their own before the Nov. 10 deadline, potentially targeting a wide receiver like Garrett Wilson to counter the Seahawks' aggressive move.
What the Other Suitors Missed
Chicago, which boasts the league's top-ranked rushing attack, would have made its offense even scarier with Nelson in the fold. The Bears also wanted to keep Caleb Williams upright during his breakout season, and Nelson would have been a massive upgrade. Instead, they may now have to face him when the Seahawks visit on Monday night.
Green Bay's banged-up offensive line could desperately use reinforcements. The Packers are 4-3 and have scored just 20.6 points per game after a 20-17 loss to the Detroit Lions. Nelson would have been a stabilizing force, but now they'll have to look elsewhere.
The Eagles are the most puzzling suitor. Philadelphia is in the midst of a five-game losing streak and has already traded Pro Bowl center Cam Jurgens after Lane Johnson retired. With the team seemingly leaning toward selling, it's unclear why they'd part with future draft capital for a midseason rental. Monday night's loss to Dallas may have cooled any interest.
Nelson's arrival in Seattle could be the spark the Seahawks need to make a deep playoff run. His leadership and elite play in the trenches will be invaluable as the season heats up.
