Trent Richardson traded to Colts

In a week 3 shocker, the Cleveland Brown traded Trent Richardson to the Indianapolis Colts for a 2014 1st Round pick according to NFL.com.

I think everyone can agree that this is a shocker. Nobody but the parties involved could have ever seen this move coming. Is this a good move by the Browns? What does this tell us about Trent Richardson? Does this make Indy a Super Bowl contender? All questions worth attempting an answer. All these questions will eventually be answered. Browns will have to be the most patient, they are good at that right? 

The most fascinating aspect of this trade is in Indianapolis. The assumed affect on the backfield is overwhelming. Trent Richardson is a top tier player at his position. However, a 1st Round pick is also very valuable. With the Colts likely in playoff contention, it is likely a mid - low 1st Round pick the Brown will receive. The Browns losing Richardson only strengthens the chances of coming away with a very high 1st Round pick themselves. Was this perhaps part of the plan? A little unethical and possibly illegal, but not a bad idea. 

Although, consider the number of teams who are in need of a Quarterback. We assume the Browns are still searching for a franchise QB. Do we also assume there are enough Quarterback needy teams to pick the draft dry within the 1st Round in 2014? I don't. Jaguars, Vikings, Titans and possibly Buccaneers, though it's not guaranteed these teams will be targeting a QB. It's also unlikely that the Browns will rank high than most of these teams. 

I believe that this is a much better deal for the Colts considering Trent Richardson's age, and the relatively low assumed value of Indy's 2014 1st Round draft pick.