Colts: 3 DBs Indy should target to replace Marvell Tell after opt-out

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 17: Cornerback Marvell Tell #39 of the Indianapolis Colts drops back in coverage during the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 17, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 17: Cornerback Marvell Tell #39 of the Indianapolis Colts drops back in coverage during the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 17, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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Free agent CB Dre Kirkpatrick (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

2. Dre Kirkpatrick

If the Colts are serious about challenging in the AFC this year — their signing of Philip Rivers was a clear indicator that is the case — they could look toward proven veterans for depth in the secondary. Former longtime Cincinnati Bengals starter Dre Kirkpatrick fills that bill.

The 30-year-old was released this offseason and has yet to be scooped up. He’s never been named to a Pro Bowl, but he’s a genuine playmaker, as evidenced by his 10 career interceptions and 65 passes defended.

At 6-foot-2, Indianapolis could ask Kirkpatrick to line up against physically imposing receivers in the red zone.

He has a total of 67 starts under his belt and might be willing to sign a short-term (team friendly) “prove it” contract in search of his first ever playoff victory. On paper, this seems like a perfect match, so the Colts should really give the eight-year vet a ring. He’s certainly put up a better profile of work than Rhodes in recent years.