Three Free Agents Who Might Significantly Affect the Colts

admin | January 24, 2024 | Other Clubs | No Comments

These free agents could be able to help the Indianapolis Colts meet some of their roster issues going into the 2024 offseason.

Despite having one of the youngest teams in the NFL, the Indianapolis Colts managed a 9-8 record. With a young team coming off one of the worst seasons in Indianapolis’ history, Shane Steichen performed admirably.

On both sides of the ball, the team will still need to fill several positions with skill. Even though Indianapolis has free agents like as wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., safety Julian Blackmon, cornerback Kenny Moore II, and defensive tackle Groover Stewart, it is likely that most, if not all, of them, will be kept.

The Colts still need help in some areas, even if this group of playmakers returns with new hires. The team has over $66 million in cap space, which may be used to make some big moves.

Now that we have that out of the way, let us take a look at three players Chris Ballard ought to sign as a free agent if the price is right.

Chidobe Awuzie | Cornerback

Given how youthful the secondary is, veteran cornerback Chidobe Awuzie would be a perfect match for Gus Bradley’s defense.Even though Dallas Flowers will return to the Colts in 2024, they may still prefer an experienced player. Let Awuzie in.

The seven-year veteran has 369 tackles, 62 passes defensed, six interceptions, and 74 starts. Awuzie can provide Indianapolis even more versatility in the cornerback spot because he is a strong run defender and tackler as well. He did not exactly blow everyone away in his three seasons (2021–2023) with the Cincinnati Bengals, but he might be a valuable asset to a defense that is in dire need of guys with experience.

Having just signed a three-year contract with Cincy that averaged $7.25 million annually, he probably would not command much money, according to Spotrac.Even though Ballard is not one to spend money, Awuzie would be a cost-effective option that might have significant benefits.

Devin Bush | Linebacker

With the Pittsburgh Steelers, the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2019) has seen a decline in output since his turbulent rookie season.He spent four seasons playing for Mike Tomlin’s defense until the team let him test free agency. According to Spotrac, he got a one-year contract worth $3.5 million to play for the Seattle Seahawks.

According to Pro Football Focus, Bush recorded 37 tackles, five tackles for loss, and a 56.3 coverage grade in 13 games (three starts) during 2023.

More than anything, Bush might be for certain sets and linebacker insurance. However, he might have an opportunity to recover in Indianapolis with starters E.J. Speed and Zaaire Franklin.

Marquise Brown | Wide Receiver

Hollywood Marquise. After parting ways with Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens (2019–2021), Brown has not been his explosive self. However, this deal makes too much sense considering Steichen’s play calling and quarterback Anthony Richardson’s deep ball talent.

Brown has 313 catches for 3,644 receiving yards, 28 touchdowns, and numerous huge plays across five seasons. Given the dearth of receiving depth and the need for playmakers on offense, the Colts are an ideal fit for Brown, who probably requires a scheme that can support his “speedster” approach.

According to Spotrac, Brown’s market worth is $14.8 million a year. If Indianapolis believes that Brown can assist Richardson and improve the offensive dynamic, then this is a price they are willing to pay.

The Colts might have a lethal receiver group that targets every aspect of the defense every week if they continue to fire and line up Brown alongside Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and Pittman.

Tags:Indianapolis Colts