The Indianapolis Colts are going to have a busy offseason in 2016. The most important moves they’ll have to make involve re-signing players from the 2012 draft class.
The group of players up for new contracts includes Coby Fleener, Dwayne Allen, Josh Chapman, Vick Ballard, and, most importantly, T.Y. Hilton. Andrew Luck is currently signed through 2016, but it wouldn’t be surprising if a deal was worked out sooner.
None of these players have been offered a contract extension yet and it doesn’t look like that will happen any time soon, according to Colts GM Ryan Grigson:
After listening to #colts GM Ryan Grigson today, convinced TY Hilton will wait until end of season for new deal,
— Mike Chappell (@mchappell51) June 11, 2015
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Hilton has become Luck’s safety blanket in the passing game and is the most dynamic player on the offense. His numbers have improved every season as he’s grown into a Pro Bowl caliber player.
In 2014, Hilton recorded 82 receptions, 1,345 receptions and seven touchdowns. The one knock on him would be the five drops over the course of the season, and five more in the playoffs.
The Colts are essentially letting Hilton play for his new contract going forward. He’s an undeniable talent, but does have a few things to work on. Specifically, getting open when he is subject to a double team.
There is also the possibility that drafting Phillip Dorsett, essentially a Hilton clone, in the first round of the draft could alienate Hilton. Dorsett gives the Colts some insurance incase they can’t work out a deal with Hilton or he decides to bolt for a more lucrative offer.
All accounts indicate that Hilton loves playing with Luck and doesn’t want to leave Indianapolis. The front office has also publically stated that they plan on re-signing Hilton. Jim Irsay said he is a priority and that the Colts want to keep the best players that they draft going forward.
Expect Hilton to be in a Colts jersey for a long time.