The Indianapolis Colts had one of the strongest run defenses in the league last season. Still, Lou Anarumo's unit left plenty to be desired in other categories, and with most of the division getting better and some veterans leaving town, they should keep an eye out in the market.
General manager Chris Ballard made sure to add young talent to that side of the field this offseason. However, even the best things can be improved, and with June 1 zooming in, multiple veterans might become available in the next couple of weeks.
Considering that, the Colts might want to turn to a divisional rival for more help in the trenches. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton argued the Jacksonville Jaguars could cut ties with Arik Armstead after revamping the defensive line this offseason, and he could be a major addition in Indianapolis:
The Indianapolis Colts could use Arik Armstead
"It seems like a matter of when, not if, the Jacksonville Jaguars cut Arik Armstead," Moton wrote. "... The Jaguars can save $14.5 million if they release him after June 1. With his declining production in the second half of the previous season, he doesn't fit in the Jaguars' revamped defensive tackle group."
Like the 2025 Colts, Armstead got off to a strong start to last season before regressing in the final stretch. He's not getting any younger at 33, but he's a proven veteran with in-depth knowledge of the division's dynamics, not to mention a clear upgrade over Grover Stewart.
The Colts added Colby Wooden and Derrick Nnadi to the mix, but neither of them is projected as a starter. Adding Armstead next to DeForest Buckner would give Anarumo's strong run defense a big boost, and they can probably have him at a discount on a one-year, "prove it" deal.
Despite his diminished production, the former San Francisco 49ers star started 11 of 16 games, logging 28 total tackles (13 solo), seven tackles for loss, eight QB hits, 5.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. Per Pro Football Focus (subscription required), he also had 48 total pressures, including 39 hurries, and 12 run stops.
Armstead can also play at defensive end, giving Anarumo a versatile piece to move around in his complex and disguise-heavy schemes. He can start opposite Laiatu Latu if he values his pass-rushing prowess more than his interior presence.
Multiple starting-caliber players will likely become available after June 1, and with a tough schedule and a lot to prove in 2026, the Colts can't afford to rest on their laurels or get complacent after a strong draft.
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