Colts Waive Loucheiz Purifoy; Sign Jalil Brown
The Indianapolis Colts announced today that they have waived undrafted rookie cornerback Loucheiz Purifoy and signed 4th-year cornerback Jalil Brown. It’s a surprising move, as Purifoy had played well on special teams and in his limited opportunities in the secondary. The team was apparently very high on Purifoy entering the season, as they traded fellow cornerback Marcus Burley to the Seattle Seahawks in favor of keeping Purifoy on the 53-man active roster.
Sep 28, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts cornerback Loucheiz Purifoy (23) against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
It’s worth noting that Purifoy had off-the-field issues while at the University of Florida, which may have contributed to him going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft as a declared junior. It’s unclear whether something happened with Purifoy off-the-field that led to his release today. However, the move otherwise looks particularly peculiar. He appeared in 11 games for the Colts, recording 7 tackles and 1 forced fumble, mostly playing special teams.
The Colts are banged up in the secondary; however, as Vontae Davis and Josh Gordy did not practicipate in practice on Wednesday and Greg Toler was limited. It’s possible that the Colts simply felt the veteran Jalil Brown is more ready to contribute as a cornerback if called upon than Purifoy.
While never lacking talent and athletic ability, the 21-year old Purifoy is still considered a bit “raw” at the cornerback position. Because of injuries, the Colts may call upon Brown to play a significant role against the Washington Redskins on Sunday in their secondary.
Brown has experience with the Colts’ defensive schemes and playbook, having played with the team in October. He had previously been signed on September 30, 2014, before being waived on November 4, 2014. Originally a 4th round pick of the Kansas City Chiefs out of Colorado in 2011, Brown has also spent time with the Miami Dolphins this season. The 27-year old has appeared in 2 games with the Colts in 2014, as well as 5 games in 2013.
UPDATE: According to the Indianapolis Star’s Stephen Holder, Indianapolis released Purifoy because of a series of “minor, in-house disciplinary issues”.
Nov 24, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Andre Roberts (12) makes a catch as Indianapolis Colts defensive back Jalil Brown (21) defends during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports