Colts Agree to Terms With OLB Trent Cole

According to ESPN’s Adam Caplan, the Indianapolis Colts have announced a deal with outside linebacker Trent Cole. There was a lot of speculation about this deal earlier today, but now it appears to set in stone.

The Colts have agreed with former Eagles pass rusher Trent Cole on 2-year deal worth $16M -- $8M guaranteed.

(via @caplannfl)
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) March 10, 2015

With this move, the Colts are finally addressing a clear need when it comes to rushing the passer. Cole has 85.5 career sacks over 10 seasons in the NFL. He’s also been to two Pro Bowls during his time in the league.

At the very least, Cole provides depth for the Colts and is an insurance policy against future injuries to Robert Mathis and the rest of the outside linebacking corps.

Cole had a solid season in 2014, posting 6.5 sacks and three forced fumbles to go along with 40 tackles. Pro Football Focus gave Cole a +6.5 overall grade. He struggled in coverage, but was +11.3 when rushing the passer and +2.6 against the run. Cole missed just one game last season as well.

Some might balk at the price tag for a 32-year old linebacker, but that price for a talented pass rusher is always going to be higher. With the focus on passing the ball in the NFL, the position becomes more valuable. The best way to stop the pass is to make sure the ball never leaves the pocket.

This is another short term deal by the Colts to sign a solid veteran who can help the team win now. With the moves the Colts have made, and are rumored to be making, its very clear this is a team that wants to win immediately (especially since Andrew Luck will sign a cap breaking deal next year).

One of the selling points for the Colts? A shot at a championship:

I just spoke with Trent Cole. He said choice was simple. He wanted chance to win a Super Bowl. Colts always team to beat in FA process.
— Stephen Andress (@StephenAndress1) March 10, 2015

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