Looking at each AFC playoff team to see which of their players could potentially join the Indianapolis Colts in free agency this offseason.
After an embarrassing season, the Indianapolis Colts find themselves once again watching the playoffs from the outside looking in. To the benefit of the Colts, getting an extra period of evaluation on players from more successful teams is a plus seeming that a minor rebuild is imminent. Much has to be done as a new season is on the horizon.
On the Colts’ to-do list first comes finding a new head coach. Once that coach establishes their staff, it’s likely there will be some player movement prior to the beginning of the free agency period in March. Then some more movement, of course, come draft time.
Til’ then let’s take a look at some potential roster additions that could make their way to Indy next year.
These AFC playoff players could become Colts in 2023
Mecole Hardman, Wide Receiver, Kansas City Chiefs
The Colts’ offense this season made the word dismal seem out of reach. It was that bad. Adding a prime deep threat in Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman, who’s one of the fastest players in football, gives the Colts an explosive player to use in various ways. Hardman had over 500 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons in the NFL and averaged 20.7 yards a reception as a rookie.
Jordan Poyer, Safety, Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills safety Jordan Poyer is the football equivalent of fine wine. He’s gotten better with age. The 33-year-old would be a key piece to pair with the duo of young safeties Julian Blackmon and Nick Cross. Not only would Poyer bring veteran leadership but he would still be a contributor. He could be the replacement for Rodney McLeod, who will become a free agent this offseason.
Germaine Pratt, Linebacker, Cincinnati Bengals
Bobby Okereke is also set to become a free agent. Zaire Franklin looks to be in play for an increased role after setting a franchise record in tackles, surpassing fellow linebacker and Colts’ superstar Shaquille Leonard. With Okereke likely finding a new team, signing Germaine Pratt adds extra insurance at the linebacker position, and has the skill set to overachieve alongside two tackling maniacs.
Evan Engram, Tight End, Jacksonville Jaguars
I don’t think I have to reiterate how bland the Colts’ offense was this season. Evan Engram provides a dynamic ability from the tight end position to pair with big man Jelani Woods. While Woods is a big body, Engram is more agile and thrives off his athleticism. Signing him would give the future franchise quarterback a ton of weapons early.
Drue Tranquill, Linebacker, Los Angeles Chargers
Let’s bring the hometown kid back to Indy. Drue Tranquill played college football at Notre Dame and is originally from Fort Wayne Indiana. The linebacker could carve out a promising role on defense for the Colts if he is brought to Indy.
Ben Powers, Guard, Baltimore Ravens
The urge to write Lamar Jackson here as if the Colts have a viable chance at getting one of, if not the most electrifying player in football was hard to pass. So instead, the more coveted Ben Powers fills a big position of need and solidifies an offensive line that hopes to bounce back after almost setting a franchise record in sacks allowed. Put Jonathan Taylor behind this guy!
Greg Little, offensive lineman, Miami Dolphins
This is a depth move. Greg Little has NFL experience playing multiple positions on the offensive line. At 26 years old, there’s still plenty of room for development and enough promise to garner a look. As I just said, Indy’s offensive line was horrible this past season so Indianapolis can use any help on the offensive line that it could get.
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