The Indianapolis Colts had been aggressively working the phones in recent weeks, seeking to acquire a difference-making defensive player leading up to the NFL trade deadline.

Mission accomplished.

Indianapolis executed a blockbuster deal to acquire two-time All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets shortly before Tuesday's deadline.

While it came at a hefty cost -- the Jets received two first-round picks (2026, '27) and embattled Colts receiver Adonai Mitchell in the deal -- Indianapolis general manager Chris Ballard said it was one the team couldn't pass on.

"He was a player that we scouted heavily coming out of college and there's a reason he was the fourth overall pick," Ballard said in a statement. "Sauce is a proven cornerback. His skill and competitive natur

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