The Indianapolis Colts aren't averse to spending money, but much of their approach in 2026 free agency appears set on spending big on the offense, especially wide receiver Alec Pierce and, hopefully, quarterback Daniel Jones. That likely means Trey Hendrickson won't be coming to Indy.
To be fair, part of that might be Hendrickson's agent's fault. The soon-to-be former Cincinnati Bengals player had a brutal offseason last year before Cincy slightly reworked his deal. This offseason, the 31-year-old's agent might want a bit more than teams are willing to spend.
Had the edge rusher stayed healthy this past season, the issue might be different, but he only appeared in seven games, and at his age, teams might be leery of giving him a long-term deal for a lot of money. If he wants $30 million a season or more, he might need to lower his asking price.
Indianapolis Colts likely have no hope for signing Trey Hendrickson and that is just fine
None of that helps the Colts, though. The team can't afford a player at that kind of cost after Indy agreed to terms with Pierce on a new deal for four years and a maximum of $116 million. Jones is not going to be less expensive. Even while making moves such as trading Michael Pittman and his huge contract, Indianapolis might need to do some bargain shopping the rest of the offseason.
What seems clear is that general manager Chris Ballard is hoping the defense that was built up by the addition of cornerback Sauce Gardner at the trade deadline in 2025 remains healthier in 2026. If that happens, and Charvarius Ward and DeForest Buckner both return, Lou Anarumo's unit should be good.
READ MORE: Indianapolis Colts 2026 free agency tracker - Guide to signings, leavings, trades
It might be great if Indy added Trey Hendrickson, a former Anarumo disciple when both worked for the Bengals, and he played one side opposite Laiatu Latu, but that isn't realistic. And ultimately, that is OK.
The Indianapolis Colts had no choice but to try to re-sign Alec Pierce and Daniel Jones. Pierce agreed to the terms quickly. Maybe Jones' new deal gets done soon, too. The reason that Indianapolis began 7-1 last season was that the offense was so brutally efficient that it could outscore teams. The defense was inconsistent.
That will probably be the plan next season, too. The only real question will be how soon Jones can return from a torn Achilles tendon he suffered in Week 14. If he is fully healthy by Week 1, the Colts will be dangerous. That would be the case with or without Trey Hendrickson.