Report: Colts Contract Talks with Jerrell Freeman ‘Not Going Well’
According to Indianapolis Fox 59’s Chris Hagan, the Indianapolis Colts contract negotiations with free agent inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman are reportedly “not going well”:
Sources tell me that the Colts negotiations with Jerrell Freeman are not going well. Parties aren't close.
— Chris Hagan (@ChrisHaganIndy) March 11, 2016
The positive news is that Freeman has yet to sign a lucrative contract with any team, but at this point, it may just be a matter of time.
Originally signed by the Colts out of the CFL in 2012, the 29 year old Freeman has started 57 games during his tenure with the team–becoming their leading tackler in 2 of those 4 seasons.
Freeman started in 13 games for the Colts last season, recording 112 tackles, 3 sacks, and an interception–arguably having his best season in Horseshoe Blue:
"“The 6’0″, 240 pound inside linebacker has always been highly regarded for his pass coverage, but it was actually his run-stopping ability that was his calling card this past season.According to ProFootballFocus (subscription), Freeman was the league’s 2nd best inside linebacker against the run with a +16.2 run stopping grade–which was only behind Carolina Panthers All-Pro inside linebacker Luke Kuechly. It was a big reason as to why he was also PFF’s 2nd best inside linebacker overall, receiving a +21.4 grade.”"
It could be a big reason as to why the Colts contract talks aren’t currently going well, as it may be a question of whether or not they can pay him the money he figures to command.