Kenny Moore is one of the best slot cornerbacks in the NFL. The Indianapolis Colts' corner proved that again with a pick-six near the beginning of Week 3. He set the tone for the rest of the game, one that was not close, and helped Indy go 3-0.
Unfortunately, Moore was injured later in the game. Initial reports were that his calf was the issue, and that is the type of injury that is tricky. He might be back soon, but he could also miss significant time. The good news is that the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the slot corner might only miss a couple of weeks.
No matter how much time Moore misses, his lack of availability is going to affect the team. This explains a move Indianapolis made after its Week 3 victory. The team reportedly signed veteran Mike Hilton, who is a pure slot receiver and could step in right away for Moore.
Indianapolis Colts sign Mike Hilton to at least temporarily replace Kenny Moore
Hilton not only has loads of experience in the league, but he played for several years under current Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo when Anarumo and Hilton were with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Hilton is 31 years old, so he isn't a long-term answer even for depth for Indianapolis. Still, he hasn't dipped in form much over the years. He is also excellent in run defense. His fit in Anarumo's scheme is proven and complete.
If Kenny Moore only has to miss a couple of weeks, Hilton should be the perfect replacement. Even if something unforeseen occurs, Hilton could simply be signed to the active roster, as Indianapolis signed him only to the practice squad to begin with.
The surprise is that Hilton hasn't found another team yet. He obviously isn't looking to play for a lot of money. Singing with Indy's practice squad isn't going to pay him much. But the cornerback also knows the defensive design he is joining, so he understands the kind of quality impact he can make right away.
Kenny Moore will be missed by the Indianapolis Colts, but the team could have done much worse than signing Mike Hilton. In other words, Indy fans should expect the defense to stay at a decent quality.