This Cowboys-Colts Trade for Malik Hooker Would Improve Dallas' Secondary Immensely
By Mark Powell
To the surprise of, well, most of us, the Colts opted not to pick up Malik Hooker's fifth-year option.
In doing so, they essentially made it known to the rest of the NFL that they're willing to part ways with the former Ohio State Buckeye. While Hooker has struggled to stay healthy, he's still got a ton of potential, and could flourish in the right situation.
Enter the Dallas Cowboys, who still have a need at safety.
The #Colts won't pick up the fifth-year option on safety Malik Hooker, per @JFowlerESPN. He is now slated to become an unrestricted free agent in 2021. Interesting decision. Has seven interceptions in 33 career starts. Just 24 years old.
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) May 4, 2020
The Colts would be wise to get something for Hooker while he still has value, especially if they're opting not to bring him back after 2020. With just one year left on his deal, a third-round pick should be enough to pry him from Indy.
That's a far lesser price than the Cowboys would have to pay for, say, Jamal Adams, who they've previously flirted with acquiring.
Katy Texas, Dallas Texas...
— Jamal Adams (@Prez) May 2, 2020
Adams would be the sexier addition, but his price tag is immense. Hooker, meanwhile, could have Pro Bowl potential at a much cheaper return.
Jerry Jones and Co. ought to sleep on it.