Stephen Holder

stephen.holder@indystar.com

We might never know whether Hakeem Nicks would be wearing a Colts uniform today if not for Ahmad Bradshaw's recruiting ability.

But this much is clear: Bradshaw – Nicks' former teammate with the Giants – pulled off a convincing sales job on Nicks, something that played at least a small role in the Colts' landing the free-agent wide receiver.

In describing Nicks, Bradshaw referred to him as "like my brother. We've been through a lot together. We've won the championship together."

So, when the Colts and Nicks established a mutual interest last month, Bradshaw was right there to help seal the deal.

"I went to his house a week before (his signing) and was just telling him how great it is over here," Bradshaw said, recounting his conversations with Nicks.

"I think it kind of helped his decision. I was really encouraging him to come over."

Meanwhile, another interested party was seeking input from Bradshaw: Colts coach Chuck Pagano.

"Coach texted me and (said), 'Is this going to be a great (signing)?''' Bradshaw recalled. "I said, 'Coach, this will help us and our team tremendously.'"

Pagano, it seems, made quite the impression on Nicks.

"I could tell he really loved Coach Pagano," Bradshaw said of Nicks. "And I said, 'I know he loves you too.'"

Clearly, Bradshaw was quite the matchmaker in bringing the Colts and Nicks together.

If he can get healthy, he'll be able to contribute in another meaningful way: By running the ball.