Breaking: Colts Sign Fresh Defensive Tackle

With questions about the Colts’ defense, signing Raekwon Davis, the lone defensive free agent, could help restore stability.

The Indianapolis Colts signed free agent Raekwon Davis this offseason. He is a defensive tackle who played all four years of his NFL career for the Miami Dolphins. This signing has the potential to have a significant impact on Davis’ plans to relocate to Indianapolis. He received a two-year contract worth $14 million, which is a good signing given his potential.

During free agency, the Colts re-signed two defensive line playmakers. Grover Stewart, a seasoned lineman, re-signed with a $39 million deal extension, while Tyquan Lewis, a veteran defensive end, re-signed for a $12 million contract. Combining these two re-signings with DeForest Buckner, Kwity Paye, and youngster Laiatu Latu was already a significant move. Raekwon Davis, on the other hand, could have a surprising impact.

How Raekwon Davis Can Help the Colts’ Defense

His Career Thus Far

Raekwon Davis entered the league in 2020, after being picked by the Miami Dolphins from the University of Alabama. His sophomore year established him as a standout college athlete. After 14 games, he had 69 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, eight sacks, and one interception. His eight sacks were fifth in the SEC, while his 45 aided tackles ranked 10th.

Aside from his college accomplishments, he made an impact early in his NFL career. As a rookie, Davis was named to the 2020 NFL All-Rookie Team. He also set a career high with 40 total tackles during his first season, in which he started 12 games. In four seasons and 48 starts, he has 59 solo tackles, five tackles for loss, ten quarterback hits, and two sacks. Davis, as a main run-stuffer, is not a high-volume playmaker. However, he is effective as a line disrupter and complementary depth piece.

He made only seven starts for the Dolphins last season. There were rumors that he may receive an extension from them, but when he hit the free agent market, the Colts bit. Given Davis’ career performance thus far, it is clear that the Colts believe he can contribute to their already-stacked defensive line.

His Potential on the Defense

The defensive line’s two major interior starters are DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. So where does that leave Raekwon Davis? He is not expected to be the primary starter for the Colts. However, he has the potential to be an important depth component in the future. This is a valuable asset that was greatly missed last season.

Last season, Grover Stewart was suspended six games for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substance policy. Within those six games, the Colts struggled to stop the run. In the two games following his suspension, Indianapolis allowed a total of 311 yards and six touchdowns on the rush. In the games that followed, Indianapolis allowed an average of 151.5 yards per game on the run.

Needless to say, not having someone who could step in and fill a much-needed hole was a disaster for the Colts. They hope that problem will not occur again in 2024. With Davis’ talent and skill set, the goal is that he can be the depth piece that can step in and contribute when needed. This will be Davis’ key role in this defense. Again, he will not be a major starter, but rather a valuable depth piece and contributor. That’s why this free agent signing will have a significant impact on the Colts.