Cory Redding Bolts Colts for Cardinals

Yesterday, Indianapolis Colts defensive lineman Cory Redding announced that he was returning, after previously mulling retirement this offseason. However, in a surprising turn of events, Redding abruptly also tweeted that he was visiting the Arizona Cardinals today on a free agent visit. This led to him signing a 2-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals:

What once seemed like a foregone conclusion of Redding returning, only if it was for the Colts, has turned out to be a misguided notion. The 34 year old has decided to continue his career, but it won’t be with the Colts. Instead, Redding will reunite with former Colts offensive coordinator and interim head coach Bruce Arians, now head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.

Jan 4, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts coach Chuck Pagano and defensive end Cory Redding (90) celebrate the victory against the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2013 AFC wild card playoff football game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis defeats Kansas City 45-44. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

It’s surprising to say the least, as Redding has consistently been one of the veteran leaders of the defense and was still highly productive even in his 12th NFL season. He started all 16 regular season games for the Colts, registering 35 tackles and 3.5 sacks.

Not only was his play highly regarded on the field, but the advanced grades provided by ProFootballFocus also shined a positive light on Redding’s play, as he was the 18th best 3-4 defensive end overall with a +3.7 grade overall.

It’s uncertain whether the Colts moved forward without an immediate decision from Redding regarding his football future or whether the team was simply looking to go in a different direction. However, it looks as though recently signed former St. Louis Rams defensive lineman Kendall Langford will effectively become his replacement. Langford at age 29 is a bit younger than Redding and may offer more of a run-stuffing pedigree.

Still, Redding will always be highly regarded for his time as an Indianapolis Colt. He was the 1st player Chuck Pagano brought over to help build his defense and was one of the undisputed leaders of his Colts teams, in addition to being highly productive. We wish him well in his future career in the desert, just not against the Colts.

Dec 14, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Cory Redding (90) salutes the fans as runs off the field after the game against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis defeats Houston 17-10. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports