Free Agency Grades: Indianapolis Colts returning players
WR TY Hilton
Hilton is back with the Colts, turning down a deal with the Baltimore Ravens to return to Indianapolis despite two poor seasons. Even on his worst day, he is a quality speed receiver that can pop off a big play or two every game, and that is worth the cheap price he was retained for. Grade: B+
WR Zach Pascal
Pascal was stuck in restricted free agency limbo, but he has now been brought back to the Colts. On a team that was led by the slender Hilton out wide for years, a physical receiver like Pascal that can be trusted to win 50-50 balls has plenty of value. This might be the year he finally breaks out and challenges for 1,000 yards. Grade: B+
DE Al-Quadin Muhammad
Muhammad has spent the last three seasons with the Colts, recording five sacks along the way. While by no means much of a difference-maker, he’ll give a defensive line that is lacking in depth a fine backup. Low ceiling, but high floor as well. Grade: B-
RB Marlon Mack
For the Colts, this move makes sense, as Mack was a starter before his injury thrust Jonathan Taylor into the spotlight. Unfortunately, with Taylor the lead dog, Nyheim Hines still the pass-catching back, and young Jordan Wilkins still in the mix, it might be tough for Mack to carve out an on-field role on this team. Grade: C+
CB Xavier Rhodes
Retaining Rhodes was surprising, as he could’ve had his pick of huge offers after successfully establishing himself as a top-flite cornerback once again after a poor final season with the Minnesota Vikings. Rhodes is one of the anchors in a very deep secondary, and the Colts should be commended for finding a way to bring him back. Grade: A
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