Cornerback (6)
Roster Locks: Charvarius Ward, Jaylon Jones, Kenny Moore II, Justin Walley, Samuel Womack, Corey Ballentine
Roster Cuts: JuJu Brents, David Long Jr, Alex Johnson, Jonathan Edwards, Evan Slocum
Here comes the first real surprise of the roster prediction. I predict (at this moment) that JuJu Brents is currently on the cut line. A couple thought processes are in play. First, he has been unable to stay healthy since he was drafted, and unable to live up to his 2nd round expectations. Second, he was a product of the Gus Bradley defensive regime, and that is no longer here. The staff signed reserve cornerback Corey Ballentine and signed All Pro Charvarius Ward to lead the room.
We also saw the new defensive staff bring draft in Justin Walley with their 3rd round pick. While some questioned whether Walley was worthy of a 3rd round pick, many questioned why this was not a safety, linebacker or offensive guard. Walley was a 4-year starter at Minnesota and is a pure cover corner. This pick seems to be indicative of change needed from the prior regime.
Safety (4)
Roster Locks: Cam Bynum, Rodney Thomas, Nick Cross, Daniel Scott
Roster Cuts: Marcel Dabo, Trey Washington
Arguably the largest area of need as they open offseason programs is safety. It was surprising to see this franchise do nothing to address this in the draft. The franchise did sign Cam Bynum in free agency, which was needed, but the depth is light. Rodney Thomas is a viable reserve; however, Daniel Scott is also a question mark.
Scott was drafted to be a special team’s contributor, but has had two consecutive season-ending leg injuries. Like JuJu Brents, you must get on the field to see what they are capable of. I fully expect the staff to bring in another name to push for a viable reserve role, or even more.
Special Teams (3)
Roster Locks: Spencer Shrader, Rigoberto Sanchez, Luke Rhodes
Roster Cuts: Maddux Trujilo
A bit of surprise news in on this part of the roster as the Colts moved on from last year's kicker, Matt Gay. Ballard said at his pre-draft presser that it was less about Matt Gay, and more about his impression of Spencer Shrader. Worth noting: Shrader has not made a kick over 50 yards in his NFL career.