Insult to Colts! Vince Wilfork Reportedly Signing with Texans
The Indianapolis Colts “reUnion” will only get to consist of Frank Gore and Andre Johnson after all. Via his Twitter account, longtime New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork announced that he will be joining the Houston Texans for next season:
Thank you everyone for everything your support has been tremendous pic.twitter.com/Kej0MsI6yB
— Vince Wilfork (@wilfork75) March 16, 2015
The 33 year old Wilfork had been in Houston today visiting along with is wife as part of a two day visit, and it looks as though he was able to find a comfort zone and reach a contract to his satisfaction with the Texans. It’s somewhat of a significant blow to the Colts because not only were they considered potentially a strong suitor for Wilfork, but the Texans also happen to play in the AFC South. Instead, the 11 year veteran will further solidify a Houston Texans front 7 that already features All-Pro J.J. Watt and the rehabilitating Jadeveon Clowney. However, despite being high on Wilfork’s list, the Colts may never have had significant mutual interest:
For those asking about Vince Wilfork, I've been told the Colts do not plan on meeting with him.
— Mike Wells (@MikeWellsNFL) March 16, 2015
It’s interesting because the team had already passed on highly regarded big defensive lineman like Terrance Knighton and Nick Fairley on team friendly 1-year deals in free agency, and it looks as though Wilfork is just the latest in-line, albeit on a 2-year deal:
Texans giving former Patriots DL Vince Wilfork a 2-year, $9 million deal, including $5M guaranteed, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 16, 2015
The Colts still have a definite need on their defensive line for some “run stuffers”, and a strong argument could be made that the team could use an upgrade at starting nose tackle over incumbent starter Josh Chapman.
However, there’s still the draft to improve the defensive line, and it’s worth noting that the Colts did bring in inside linebacker Nate Irving for a visit today, which could help the defense up the middle against the run. Still, one can’t help but look at this current defense as it stands, specifically along the defensive line, and sincerely hope the Colts still make some significant additions to solidify the unit’s run defense.
Jan 18, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) is hit by New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork (75) after throwing a pass in the second half in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports