The Indianapolis Colts have multiple positions that need improvement to return to being the favorites to win the AFC South. They have $61,915,819 in cap space for the 2017 offseason. That is 8th highest amount in the entire NFL. So, of course, Colts fans are hopeful that Chris Ballard and Chuck Pagano will work together to sign the right players. The question is, which players should the Colts sign?
- TJ Lang: OG – Former Green Bay Packer TJ Lang, who is 29 years old, would be a perfect fit in Indianapolis. During the 2016 season, he had 13 starts where Lang did not allow a single sack or hit on Aaron Rodgers. This is a fantastic stat considering Rodgers held the ball longer than any QB besides Tyrod Taylor. Lang would really solidify the right side of the Colts offensive line. Indianapolis’ offensive line played very well in the last 6 games of the season but the addition of Lang would make them much more consistent when it comes to protecting Andrew Luck.[NickPoalson]
- Eric Berry: S – The history between Eric Berry and Chris Ballard makes this a real possibility for the Colts. Kansas City has mentioned the possibility of franchise tagging Berry. However, the Chiefs have hardly any cap space which makes it very possible that they will not be able to sign him, in turn, making him a free agent. If this does happen, the Colts must sign Berry to at least a 3-year deal. He has been one of the best safeties in the NFL over his career and would give Indianapolis a HUGE boost in solidifying their secondary.
- Melvin Ingram: OLB – Ingram is still a young player at just 26 years old. The Chargers are another team that is ranked low in available cap space for this coming offseason. With Robert Mathis retiring and Walden becoming a free agent, the Indianapolis Colts must find pass rushers. Ingram has great size and strength which is what the Colts need on the edge. He is coming off a season where he had 8 sacks and 4 forced fumbles. The former first rounder has shown he can pressure the quarterback but needs to be more consistent. A two-year deal would be a smart move and definitely give them a legitimate pass rusher.
- Kawann Short: DT – It’s no secret that the Colts have had one of the worst defenses when it comes to stopping the run. Short would be a surprise if Carolina doesn’t resign him. But if they don’t, Indianapolis should make him a top priority. As a defensive tackle, Short has had 17 combined sacks over his last two seasons for Carolina. A defensive tackle that can get to the quarterback up the middle and move them out of the pocket is a huge weapon. Short played college football for Purdue and bringing him back to Indiana could be a huge difference maker for the Colts defense.[Sean2]
- Zach Brown: ILB – Zach Brown was one of the biggest pro bowl snubs from the 2016 season. He finished with 149 combined tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. He has experience in a 3-4 defense and could give the Colts a solid upgrade at inside linebacker. Brown was outstanding at plugging holes and stuffing the run, which the Colts obviously need. Buffalo is going to have to pay him big money in order to keep him. If they choose not to, though, he would be a great fit in the Indianapolis Colts 3-4 defensive scheme.