Impressive edge-rushing prospects could impact Colts approach in free agency
The Indianapolis Colts have options for how best to address the defensive line after a strong combine from edge rushers.
Prospects put on a show at the annual NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. While several groups were impressive, the edge-rushing unit had one of the best collective performances.
They all displayed great size, looked good in drills, and ran really, really fast. Six edge prospects ran sub-4.6 in the 40-yard dash and Amare Barno from Virginia Tech had the best edge time running a 4.36.
Headlined by Aidan Hutchinson and Kayvon Thibodeaux, the prospects showed that this is an incredibly deep class for edge pass-rushing and teams should take note.
Following the impressive showing, NFL Insider, Ian Rapoport, reported that teams were impressed and have already begun adjusting their boards, saying that the incoming class of pass rushers could have an impact on the movement of veterans in free agency.
From our NFL Combine Coverage: A look at how a blazin’ edge group could affect some rushers in free agency. pic.twitter.com/cQYDq1FICj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 6, 2022
One of the teams that will be impacted by this is the Indianapolis Colts. Indy always seems to be in the market for edge rushers and this offseason will be no different.
Colts could address pass rushing in draft or free agency
This gives Indianapolis a lot of freedom in deciding how best to address the Colts edge-rushing issue. Indy could turn to free agency, the draft, or both.
Since the draft class is looking really impressive, this could influence many teams to focus on landing a prospect instead of pursuing veterans in free agency.
If that’s the case, the competition on the market could lessen and the cost for a veteran edge rusher could come down. With names like Von Miller, Chandler Jones, Haason Reddick, and many more, the Colts could receive a big boost by turning to veterans.
If Indy is unable to land a veteran, it’s in a good position in the draft to select some of the many talented prospects. With the class being so deep, Indy could draft an edge rusher in the second round or with one of their mid-round picks.
Which would be the better approach for Indianapolis, drafting an edge rusher or signing a veteran?
Is the draft or free agency better for the Colts?
Considering where Indianapolis is as a team, it would be better suited to target veteran pass rushers. The Colts are a few pieces away from having a championship-caliber roster, it’s better to rely on proven players.
Since Indy doesn’t have a first-round pick, it won’t be able to land the top edge rushers in the class. Although this is a deep class, the players who typically have a significant and immediate impact are drafted in the first round.
The Colts aren’t in a position to depend on a promising mid-round edge selection, no matter the potential. It would be better for Indy’s Super Bowl chances if they could land one of the big free agent names and draft a promising edge rusher in the later rounds.
This would give Indianapolis immediate production and help win now, while also allowing a player from this deep class to develop into an impact player.
