Colts: 3 big-name defensive free agents Indy should pursue

1. Shaquil Barrett

Shaquil Barrett could change the look of the Colts’ defense.

Barrett, a former undrafted free agent, couldn’t have picked a better time to hit free agency. While his eight sacks didn’t look as impressive as the league-leading 19.5 he tallied in 2019, Barrett proved his worth in the playoffs, playing a pivotal role in decimating Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV.

Barrett’s speed made him one of the most feared weapons off the edge over the last two seasons, and his ability to absorb contact and stay on his feet helps him pile up the sack totals. Still just 28 years old, there’s reason to believe that playing with DeForest Buckner and a stacked defensive line could help him continue performing at an elite clip.

Justin Houston proved that his production was not a result of Kansas City’s system after recording 19 sacks in two seasons under Eberflus. While Houston has more pedigree, Barrett is younger and faster, and he could turn into a truly special pass rusher if Tampa Bay decides to let him test the free-agent waters.

Reich will have the offense humming no matter who is under center, but Ballard needs to keep adding in order to make sure that Indy’s defense is still playing at an elite level. By signing Barrett, Peterson, and Harris, the Colts could thrust themselves into the Super Bowl contender tier.