Colts CB Kenny Moore II Ready for Change, Says GM Chris Ballard

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard confirmed on Monday that veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II has formally requested a trade, stating the player is “ready for a change” after nine seasons with the franchise.

Ballard made the remarks during a brief media session following the team’s offseason workout program, which concluded earlier this month. He emphasized that while Moore remains under contract through the 2026 season, the organization is open to exploring a trade if a suitable partner emerges.

“Kenny has been a tremendous professional and a leader in our locker room for nearly a decade,” Ballard said. “He’s earned the right to have this conversation. We respect his desire to explore other opportunities, and we’ll handle this process with the same integrity he’s shown us.”

Moore, an undrafted free agent signed by the Colts in 2017, has developed into one of the NFL’s most reliable slot corners, earning two Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as a fixture in Indianapolis’ secondary. Over his career, he has recorded 18 interceptions, over 600 tackles, and consistently ranked among the league’s best in coverage metrics when targeted in the slot.

Despite his production, Moore’s role has evolved in recent seasons as the Colts have invested in younger cornerbacks and adjusted their defensive scheme under head coach Shane Steichen. The emergence of second-year player JuJu Brents and the continued development of third-round pick Isaiah Rodgers Sr. Have reduced Moore’s snap count in certain packages, though he remains a key contributor on third downs and in nickel situations.

The timing of Moore’s request coincides with the Colts’ ongoing evaluation of their roster heading into the 2026 season. Indianapolis holds multiple draft picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, including two in the top 60, and has been linked to potential moves involving both offensive and defensive personnel as they look to build around quarterback Anthony Richardson.

Richardson, who entered the league in 2023 as the fourth overall pick, is entering his third season and has shown flashes of elite potential despite injury setbacks. Ballard reiterated the team’s commitment to developing Richardson as the franchise quarterback, noting that surrounding him with complementary talent remains a priority.

While Ballard did not disclose specific trade partners or compensation expectations, industry sources suggest that Moore’s veteran leadership, familiarity with complex coverages, and relatively manageable contract — carrying a $10.2 million cap hit in 2026 with no guaranteed money beyond this season — could make him an attractive option for contending teams seeking secondary depth.

Teams such as the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles have been mentioned in league circles as potential fits due to their schematic versatility and history of acquiring experienced defensive backs. However, no formal discussions have been confirmed by either party.

Moore, 30, has expressed appreciation for his time in Indianapolis in past interviews, calling the organization “family” and crediting the coaching staff for his development. He has not publicly commented on the trade request since Ballard’s remarks, and his representatives have declined to elaborate.

The Colts are expected to continue evaluating trade offers throughout the offseason, with the NFL’s annual league meeting in late May often serving as a catalyst for such transactions. Ballard indicated that the club will not rush the process but will act decisively if the right opportunity arises.

For now, Moore remains under contract and is expected to report to mandatory minicamp in June unless a trade is finalized beforehand. His future with the franchise now hinges on whether Indianapolis can secure appropriate compensation for a player who has been a model of consistency and professionalism since arriving as an undrafted rookie nearly a decade ago.