Which QB could Colts draft in 2023? Jim Irsay provides telling hint

The Indianapolis Colts officially announced the hiring of new head coach Shane Steichen, the Philadelphia Eagles' former offensive coordinator, on Tuesday (February 14).

While introducing his new coach, general manager Jim Irsay dropped a hint on who he seems to be interested in drafting in this year's draft.

While speaking to the media about a quarterback change and wanting to develop a young QB, Irsay may have hinted at who the number one quarterback is on the team's list.

Irsay said:

"No one can shy away about what a quarterback means in this league.. Do you stay put? Do you trade up? There's many things you can do Knowing we're going to have to find a young QB to develop... The Alabama (Bryce Young) guy doesn't look bad. It'll be exciting I think that shows that we have talent here at those games so we're looking forward to Shane coming in and utilizing that talent."

The Indianapolis-based team have been looking for a franchise quarterback ever since Andrew Luck retired following the 2018 season.

In 2019, the team signed quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who started all but one game for the team that season. The following season, veteran quarterback Phillip Rivers started the entire season for the team.

In 2021, the team traded for Carson Wentz, who lasted just one season with the team. Last season, the team started Matt Ryan in 12 games, while also starting rookie Sam Ehlinger and veteran Nick Foles.

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Could Colts trade up with the Chicago Bears for the number-one pick in 2023 NFL draft?

Houston Texans v Indianapolis Colts

Could the Colts trade up to select Young? The Chicago Bears currently hold the number-one overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. The Colts own the number-four overall pick.

While the Bears seem committed to quarterback Justin Fields, they aren't expected to draft a quarterback with the first pick. They could stay put and select a player number one overall or they could trade the pick to a QB-needy team.

The Houston Texans pick number-two overall and could select a quarterback as they're entering a rebuilding season and need a franchise QB.

This could cause the Colts to be aggressive and trade up and select the QB of their choice.

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Ian Rapoport, Jim Irsay, and H/T Sportskeeda