Colts DT Art Jones agrees to reduced salary
By Evan Reller
The Indianapolis Colts were quiet on the first day of free agency, but made some in-house moves to free up some cap space.
Colts defensive tackle Art Jones has agreed to take a $2 million pay cut, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. Jones missed all of last season with torn ligaments in his ankle that he suffered during the preseason.
Source: Colts DT Arthur Jones took a payout from $4.5M to $2.5M for 2016. Can make the $2M back through per roster bonuses & incentives.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 10, 2016
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Jones was originally signed before the 2014 season, but missed seven games due to a high ankle sprain. Even after he returned, Jones was never completely healthy in 2014.
The deal frees up money for a free agent signing while making Jones earn his money by staying on the field this season. If Jones can stay healthy, the Colts will have a fairly formidable defensive line that might even be able to provide some consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
This is the second player that GM Ryan Grigson has gotten to take a pay cut. A few days ago, Trent Cole agreed to a similar deal to remain on the roster.
As Yates stated, Jones can earn back that $2 million simply by staying healthy and playing well. We’ll update if the specific terms of the deal become available.
Make sure to check back for Colts free agency news and updates.