Colts: 3 free agents Indy must avoid this offseason
By Jerry Trotta
1. JJ Watt
Free agent pass rusher JJ Watt’s current market is too expensive for the Colts.
When the Texans nonsensically approved of JJ Watt’s request to be released (why not trade him for draft picks?), fans in Indianapolis immediately advocated for his signing.
After all, seeing a division rival go up in flames is incredibly satisfying and they wanted to see the Colts have a hand in their demise.
When Watt’s free agent market was disclosed this week, though, it quickly became apparent how much of a pipe dream that was. According to reports, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year has had multiple suitors approach him with offers since his release, the most lucrative of which reportedly falls somewhere between $15 and $16 million annually.
While the Colts could meet such a price, the Carson Wentz trade severely dented their cap situation. With that in mind, plus the fact that defensive end isn’t a glaring need, Indy would be better off targeting a cheaper option — like re-signing veteran Justin Houston, which they’re reportedly already kicking the tires on.
This all isn’t to say that we wouldn’t love Watt on the Colts. He’s one of the most decorated pass rushers of his generation and has at least three years of his prime remaining. However, given that signing him would throw a wrench into Ballard’s plans to make marquee additions up and down the roster, they really have no other choice but to let the five-time All-Pro sign elsewhere.
