Does Rodney McLeod signing mean Colts are out on Tyrann Mathieu?
The Indianapolis Colts recently signed veteran safety, Rodney McLeod, and that leaves many wondering about Tyrann Mathieu.
On Friday afternoon, the Indianapolis Colts made a much-needed free agency move by bringing in veteran safety Rodney McLeod. It’s been reported that McLeod and Indy are finalizing a deal.
McLeod is a 10-year veteran that started his career with the Rams before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2016. He has played the last six seasons in Philly, starting at safety and providing consistent play.
He will bring a veteran presence to a young Indianapolis secondary while also providing some much-needed depth. Soon to be 32 years old, McLeod can still play quality football and has started every game he’s played in after his rookie season. He will likely compete with Khari Willis for one of the starting safety spots.
Source: The #Colts are finalizing a deal for veteran former #Eagles safety Rodney McLeod.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 8, 2022
While Indianapolis definitely needed to add to its safety room, many fans were hoping for a big splash with Tyrann Mathieu. News of the McLeod deal leaves many wondering if it’s time to kiss goodbye to the dream of landing the Honey Badger.
Are Colts done pursuing Tyrann Mathieu?
The likely answer is yes, Indianapolis is no longer in the running for Mathieu. After Jim Irsay admitted the team was working to land one more big-name free agent defender if the money was right, everyone assumed it was Mathieu.
However, there have been recent reports that the Colts have been rather stingy in free agency and it’s likely that they weren’t willing to give Mathieu the contract that he was seeking.
Tyrann has also had free agency visits with the New Orleans Saints and the Eagles, McLeod’s former team. It’s likely that he’s also moving on in a different direction.
While the Mathieu signing would have been exciting and put Indianapolis over the top, Indy’s defense is still in pretty good shape after missing out on him.
The return of Julian Blackmon should be a really big boost for the defense and McLeod should also deliver some good contributions. Additionally, the Colts have the NFL Draft where they will likely target some corners to help out on the outside.
