Replacing Ricky Jean-Francois: Possible Candidates for Colts

Oct 12, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens nose tackle Haloti Ngata (92) sits on the bench in the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Nab Ngata:

Earlier, we noted this would make quite a bit of sense for the Colts. Of course, this would require the Baltimore Ravens to actually release longtime defensive lineman Haloti Ngata from their team. The 9-year pro has consistently been one of the best defensive lineman in the NFL for the Ravens, but is due a $16 million dollar cap for Baltimore in 2015 and will be asked to restructure. If the two sides can’t reach a new agreement, then the Ravens could save $8.5 million by releasing him.

Since being drafted in the 1st round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of the University of Oregon, Ngata’s been a 5x All-Pro, 5x Pro Bowler, and Super Bowl XLVII Champion all as a member of the Ravens. The 31-year old remains highly productive too, coming off a season in which he recorded 31 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions in 12 starts before being suspended for 4 games because of PED’s.

As testament, according to ProFootballFocus (subscription), Ngata was the 9th best overall 3-4 defensive end with a +18.4 overall grade. His +8.9 grade against the run effectively placed him as the 11th best 3-4 defensive end in this regard.