According to Josina Anderson, from ESPN, Dontari Poe’s visit with the Indianapolis Colts “went well” but no deal was reached. This doesn’t mean that the Colts are not still in the hunt to sign the 26-year-old nose tackle. Poe is meeting with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday and is rumored to be looking for a 1-year deal. This could be a possible reason as to why the deal didn’t get done. The Colts are clearly focused on improving their front seven to help stop the run. But, Indy is now back to square one and must not wait to find out what Dontari Poe is going to do. There is still talent available that would help boost their defensive line that Indianapolis should consider.
[NickPoalson]
Both defensive tackles Bennie Logan and Johnathan Hankins are still available. Hankins has had a very productive career but played in a 4-3 defensive scheme during his time with the Giants. He has had 23.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles over his last three seasons according to ESPN stats. But can he produce the same numbers in a 3-4 defensive scheme? It’s hard to say when you consider that he has never played nose tackle in his career. But he has the size and talent that you would look for in a nose tackle. This makes the 24-year old a possible option for Indianapolis if they want to beef up the defensive line.
Bennie Logan is another player that could be a good fit for Indianapolis at nose tackle. Over his last 3 seasons, he has 15 tackles for loss when lined up at nose tackle. This is only 1 behind Damon Harrison, who leads the league with most tackles for loss, over that span by a nose tackle. This clearly shows that he can get it done but he doesn’t have the ideal size you would look for at that position. However, they should still take a look at the 4-year veteran if they can’t reach a deal with Poe or possibly Hankins.
[Sean2]
The Colts must work on strengthening their defensive line and adding any one of the three players mentioned would help. All have had solid production throughout their careers. With the loss of Zach Kerr and possibly David Parry, the Colts desperately need some help. They need a player that can penetrate the line of scrimmage and get to ball carriers or at least command a double team. It will be interesting to see how Indianapolis moves forward and if they land Dontari Poe. Or, if they do not, who will they target out of the remaining free agents.