Colts have a higher ceiling than they did a year ago

With the moves that have been made in free agency thus far, the Colts have a higher ceiling than they did a year ago with their roster.

The Colts have made some interesting moves in free agency so far. They traded their first-round pick for DeForest Buckner and then signed him to a large five-year extension. Then they signed Philip Rivers to a one-year deal worth $25 million.

These two signings have increased the ceiling of this team already. Rivers, while wildly turnover prone, loves to push the ball down the field. That allows the offense to score quicker. That was something the team struggled with Jacoby Brissett under center.

Adding Buckner up the middle improves the defensive line drastically. He pairs next to Justin Houston, who had an excellent first year with Indy, to add a bunch of pass-rushing abilities. Add in Kemoko Turay, who flashed before breaking his ankle, Tyquan Lewis, and Ben Banogu, and the defensive line suddenly looks formidable.

There are still some holes that need to be addressed with this team to further that ceiling. Wide receiver remains a position that needs some upgrades. Someone other than T.Y. Hilton needs to emerge as a number two guy. Parris Campbell and Zach Pascal are fine, but someone else needs to come in too.

The secondary needs to improve too. Rock Ya-Sin had a rough rookie season but should be better this year. Malik Hooker and Khari Willis had issues getting themselves on the same page too. They can’t keep getting burned for big plays if they want to make the playoffs.

The ceiling has been raised to a true playoff contender. In order to be a true Super Bowl contender though, those other holes need to be filled by players who can add significant value.