Pittsburgh traded up from No. 44 to No. 38 in the 2004 second…
Pittsburgh traded up from No. 44 to No. 38 in the 2004 second round for cornerback Ricardo Colclough, sending Indianapolis the 44th and 107th picks. The Colts used No. 44 on Bob Sanders, who became a first-team All-Pro and the 2007 AP Defensive Player of the Year, while Kendyll Pope added depth from the fourth-round pick. Colclough never became a comparable starter, making Indianapolis the overwhelming winner.
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 2004 2nd round pick (44th overall, Bob Sanders)
- pick 2004 4th round pick (107th overall, Kendyll Pope)
Pittsburgh Steelers Received
- pick 2004 2nd round pick (38th overall, Ricardo Colclough )
Trade Analysis
Why the Trade Happened
Pittsburgh wanted to move up six places in the second round of the 2004 draft and targeted cornerback Ricardo Colclough. Indianapolis agreed to fall from No. 38 to No. 44 in exchange for the Steelers' fourth-round pick at No. 107. The Colts gained an additional selection while remaining in position to add a defensive back they valued.
What the Returns Produced
Pittsburgh selected Colclough, who spent parts of four seasons with the Steelers but never developed into a dependable starting corner. His greatest role came on special teams and as a reserve defensive back. Indianapolis selected safety Bob Sanders at No. 44 and linebacker Kendyll Pope at No. 107. Pope's contribution was limited, but Sanders became one of the league's most impactful defenders when healthy.
How the Value Developed
Sanders earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2005 and 2007, made two Pro Bowls and was named AP Defensive Player of the Year in 2007. His physical style helped transform the Colts' defense during a championship window, including the run surrounding Indianapolis' Super Bowl XLI title. Injuries prevented a long career, yet his peak value far exceeded anything Pittsburgh received from Colclough.
Why This Trade Still Matters
The outcome demonstrates the upside of moving down without leaving a desired talent range. Indianapolis acquired the best player in the exchange and an extra pick, while Pittsburgh paid additional capital for a player who never secured the role envisioned for him.
Final Verdict
Indianapolis Colts Win is the best fit. Indianapolis earns an A+ because Sanders reached an award-winning, championship-level peak, while Pittsburgh earns a D+ because Colclough's limited defensive impact did not justify moving up and surrendering another selection.