The Indianapolis Colts may not be done with staff turnover just yet. While defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo surprisingly didn’t land a head coaching gig this cycle, there’s still a real chance the Colts lose key pieces from the offensive side of the ball - and soon.
Passing game coordinator Alex Tanney recently interviewed with the New York Giants for their offensive coordinator vacancy, and current Colts OC Jim Bob Cooter is expected to follow with an interview of his own. On paper, a move to New York might look lateral for Cooter, but there’s a key difference: play-calling duties would be part of the package with the Giants.
That’s a big deal. In Indianapolis, Shane Steichen holds the reins on play-calling.
But in New York, Cooter - or Tanney, if he lands the job - would get full control of the offense. That kind of responsibility, combined with a fresh start under newly hired head coach John Harbaugh, could be a launching pad for either coach’s career.
Harbaugh, fresh off his departure from Baltimore, brings a proven track record and a culture of accountability. If either Tanney or Cooter takes the OC job and gets results, it wouldn’t be long before their names start popping up in head coaching conversations. And don’t be surprised if they try to bring a few familiar faces with them from Indianapolis to help jumpstart the rebuild in New York.
Here are four Colts free agents who could make sense as targets for the Giants - both from a scheme fit and a culture standpoint.
Alec Pierce, WR
If you’re building an explosive offense, Alec Pierce is the kind of weapon you want. At 6'3" with legit speed, he’s led the league in yards per catch each of the past two seasons.
The only thing missing? Volume.
In Steichen’s system, targets are spread around - it’s not built to feed one guy 140 times a year. That’s limited Pierce’s production, but not his potential.
Pairing Pierce with rising star Malik Nabers in New York could be a game-changer for young quarterback Jaxson Dart. Nabers brings polish and route-running; Pierce adds vertical juice and size.
Together, they’d stretch defenses and open up the field in ways the Giants haven’t seen in years. If the offensive line holds up, Dart to Pierce could become a dangerous connection in the NFC East.
The good news for Colts fans? The Giants don’t have much cap space, so they may not be able to outbid Indy for Pierce’s services. And if Pierce values playing indoors at Lucas Oil Stadium - and staying in a system he knows - there’s still a shot he sticks around.
Mo Alie-Cox, TE
At 33, Mo Alie-Cox isn’t a pass-catching threat like he once was, but he still brings real value - especially to a coach like Harbaugh who prizes physicality and discipline. Alie-Cox is a strong blocker and could help shore up a Giants offensive line that’s struggled, particularly on the right side.
Even more than that, he’s a veteran presence who knows how to carry himself. For a young roster trying to find its identity, Alie-Cox would be a stabilizing force in the locker room.
Every team needs glue guys. Harbaugh knows that better than most.
Danny Pinter, OL
Pinter isn’t a household name, but he’s the kind of versatile lineman every team wants in the rotation. He’s logged snaps at both center and right guard - two spots the Giants happen to need help at - and while he hasn’t been a full-time starter, he’s proven to be a reliable depth piece.
If Tanney or Cooter ends up in New York, bringing in a guy like Pinter could help smooth the transition. He already knows the terminology, the blocking schemes, the rhythm of the offense. That kind of continuity can make a big difference, especially early in the season when teams are still finding their footing.
Braden Smith, RT
This is the big one. Outside of Pierce, Braden Smith would be the most impactful Colts free agent the Giants could land.
He’s a top-tier right tackle - consistent, physical, and technically sound. And for a New York team that’s been trying to fix its offensive line for what feels like a decade, Smith would be a massive upgrade.
The Colts, meanwhile, may be ready to move on. Smith isn’t old - he turns 30 in March - but Indy has a potential replacement in Jalen Travis already on the roster. With Smith possibly commanding $15 million per year on the open market, the Colts could opt for the younger, cheaper option and use that money elsewhere.
For the Giants, though, Smith would be worth the investment. Solidifying the right side of the line would go a long way in protecting Dart and opening up the run game. If New York can do some financial gymnastics to make it happen, this is the kind of signing that changes the complexion of their offense overnight.
Bottom line: The Colts could be facing more than just a coaching shake-up. With the Giants potentially poaching both staff and players, Indianapolis might look a little different in 2026 - and New York might start to resemble a Midwestern outpost. Whether it’s Tanney or Cooter calling plays, don’t be surprised if a few familiar Colts follow them east.