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Colts: Chris Ballard should target team’s three biggest needs with these moves

By Jerry Trotta

Sep 20, 2020; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Justin Houston (50) and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (99) celebrate a sack in the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2020; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Justin Houston (50) and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (99) celebrate a sack in the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Justin Houston, Indianapolis Colts
Defensive end Justin Houston #50 of the Indianapolis Colts (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

2. Re-sign Justin Houston

Why haven’t the Colts re-signed edge rusher Justin Houston yet?

Fans in Indianapolis probably gasped when they read that Justin Houston scheduled a free agent visit with the Ravens last week. However, we like to think the veteran would return to Indy if it ever came down to the two teams, as Ballard has significantly more cap space at his disposal.

Nevertheless, the Colts simply must re-sign Houston after missing out on Jadeveon Clowney. Not only is the former All-Pro the best remaining option on the free agent market, but he’s a pillar of  Indianapolis’ culture and has flourished in their defensive scheme over the last two seasons.

During that span (32 games), Houston has registered 69 tackles, 21 of which went for a loss, 19 sacks, 30 quarterback hits, 53 pressures, and three forced fumbles and safeties apiece. The Colts simply aren’t going to find that kind of production in the draft or at this stage of free agency.

While we wouldn’t be against drafting an edge rusher in the second round, running it back with the imposing defensive line trio of Houston, DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart should be regarded as a must for Ballard and the rest of the front office.

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