3 defensive players Colts must re-sign
By Brad Marr
Colts must re-sign DT Taylor Stallworth
The only player on the list that didn’t begin his roots with Indianapolis is Taylor Stallworth. He joined the team after a stint with the New Orleans Saints in 2020. What an addition he’s been.
On a defensive line that struggled at times creating pressure, Stallworth made his presence known this season as a big-time rotational piece, clogging run gaps and getting to the quarterback.
Stallworth provides great depth behind 2020 All Pro, two-time Pro Bowler Deforest Buckner. A guy like Grover Stewart, who’s entering the last year of his contract next season, could be looking in the eyes of a younger and cheaper replacement.
Once viewed as a reserve run stuffer, Taylor Stallworth has developed into a nice pass rusher, ultimately proving his potential on the team and hopefully, cementing his status to remain a Colt for years to come.
Taylor Stallworth is a player I've never watched before last night but he made a notable impact on just 22 snaps, including these 3 HQ reps as a rusher, including 1 HQ sack, all using different moves. Very impressive. pic.twitter.com/VDJeqafo6Q
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) November 5, 2021
A defensive coordinator who’s first objective is fixing the pass rush, would love to have someone like Stallworth to help build the foundation.
2021 Season Stats: 3 Sacks, 16 tackles, 4 TFLs, 12 QB hits, 2 passes defended
The Colts have some important decisions to make this offseason but these players should be at the top of the list for Gus Bradley and Chris Ballard. We’ll start to see the ball rolling once the new defensive staff gets pieced together.
Some Honorable Mention Players to consider: DE Al-Quadin Muhammad, LB Matthew Adams, DE TyQuan Lewis, DE Kemoko Turay.
