Replacing Ricky Jean-Francois: Possible Candidates for Colts

Jan 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Ricky Jean Francois (99) gestures to the crowd against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter in the 2014 AFC Wild Card playoff football game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Fresh off of releasing defensive lineman Ricky Jean-Francois, the Indianapolis Colts are now faced with the somewhat tough task of replacing him. That isn’t to say that Jean-Francois is a once in a generational talent by any means, but he was still a solid rotational defensive lineman, even starter for the Colts. Right now, the team only has one proven defensive end on its active roster in Arthur Jones heading into next season.

Looking to shore up their run defense along the defensive line after being pummeled by New England Patriots powerback LeGarrette Blount yet again in this year’s AFC Championship Game, the Colts could look at several alternatives to upgrade the position: