The initial word I’m getting on Malik Hooker is that teams have called the Colts to inquire about him, NOT the other way around. Take everything w a grain of salt this time of year, but I believe this is very plausible.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) April 21, 2020
The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for the 2020 NFL draft, but it appears safety Malik Hooker has been the topic of trade interest from other teams, per Stephen Holder of The Athletic.
There was an initial report from Michael Lombardi of The Athletic about Hooker being available, but it doesn’t seem like the Colts are shopping the 24-year-old.
More players available…Malik Hooker, Indy, PJ Hall Oakland, Rasul Douglas Phila, Adam Sheehan, Chicago. It's going to be a fun week.
— Michael Lombardi (@mlombardiNFL) April 21, 2020
The 2017 first-round pick has been a key cog in the defense for the Colts but has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play since entering the league. His best stretch of games came during the first six weeks of his rookie season when he recorded three interceptions before tearing his ACL.
Hooker is a talented safety, but he hasn’t lived up to the hype of being a first-round pick. Whether that’s due to injury or the scheme switch is anyone’s guess, but teams have been reportedly calling about the Ohio State product.
The Colts have a team option for Hooker’s fifth season, which they need to exercise or decline by the end of May. It wouldn’t be a surprise that Hooker is available for trades but it doesn’t seem like there is anything of substance to a deal happening.
Nothing of substance so far, but he clearly hasn’t etched himself into an unquestioned future piece. Don’t love it though. Would be curious to see the return. Not a ton of quality safety depth ready to be a starter.
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) April 21, 2020
This may all be because the Colts are waiting to decide on Hooker’s fifth-year option, which is likely to cost around $7–8 million. That’s right around the middle of the pack for safety contracts. The Colts may not be actively shopping Hooker but because there is hesitation with his option, some teams might believe he’s available.
Though it should be noted that just about every player is available at the right price.
The Colts have been an organization privy to trading during the draft so nothing should be totally dismissed, but it seems this is more teams inquiring about Hooker rather than the team shopping him.