Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy (76) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Number 3: Greg Hardy, Defensive End
Player: Greg Hardy
Age: 26
Ht/Wt: 6’4″, 275 pounds
Buyers Remorse: Nicknamed “The Kracken”, the Colts have no real need to release him. It’s not because of a lack of production either, as Hardy is just one season removed from a 15 sack season with the Carolina Panthers. Rather, it’s because of character concerns as Hardy was suspended almost the entirety of this past season because of domestic violance issues.
While the charges were recently dropped by the state, the Colts really cannot afford to bring in another off-the-field headache in this offseason. They’ve already been littered with such problems, and the team needs to stick with bringing in talented high character players.
The Carolina Panthers are reportedly “washing their hands clean” of their talented pass rusher in Hardy, who’s set to become a free agent. However, the Colts would be wise to never risk dirtying theirs up in the first place. The talented, yet troubled pass rusher is no doubt a special talent, but the Colts need to protect the integrity and high character of the Horseshoe instead of further risking the tarnishment of their emblem.