The Indianapolis Colts appear to be one of the strong suitors for recently released former Houston Texans wideout Andre Johnson. The 12-year veteran was released by the only team he’s ever known yesterday in a cap saving move. However, the 6’3″, 230 pound Johnson figures to garner plenty of attention in the open market.
According to ESPN’s Terry Blount, the Colts are potentially one of Johnson’s preferred teams:
Andre Johnson's brother tweeted 4 teams Andre is interested in _ Seahawks, Colys, Pats and Packers.
— Terry Blount (@TBlountNews) March 10, 2015
Of course, it comes as no surprise that all 4 teams on Johnson’s list are legitimate Super Bowl contenders. The soon-to-be 34 year old Johnson likely wants one last shot to hoist the Lombardi trophy.
Dec 21, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
For the Colts, the team already has strong University of Miami ties with coaches Chuck Pagano and Rob Chudzinski having previously coached there. It may be a bit ironic that longtime Colts wideout Reggie Wayne, as a former Miami Hurricane, may be getting replaced by a fellow wideout from his same alma mater.
With the Colts also interested in running back Frank Gore, who’s back in play after reconsidering the Eagles proposal, the Colts could have a Miami Hurricane reunion, as the veteran running back went to “the U” as well. In addition to Wayne at wideout, the Colts have found notable success with a former standout Miami running back in Edgerrin James, one of the franchise’s all-time great running backs. While Gore is towards the end of his career, the team clearly hasn’t been shy about adding former noteworthy Miami alum.
Still, there’s a lot of work that has to be done to get Johnson in Horseshoe Blue. It’s rumored that he may be able to command as much as $10 million annually on the open market, which at 34 years old, is certainly a steep price to pay for an aging wideout. However, from a veteran and leadership standpoint, Johnson can help give many of the things that Wayne did, while also providing the team with a big-bodied, proven possession wideout.
Last season, Johnson caught 85 receptions for 936 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns despite shaky starting quarterback play. He’s in-line for quite the upgrade if it’s ultimately Colts star young quarterback Andrew Luck throwing him passes.