There are a number of players on the Indianapolis Colts roster that are set to be free agents, and one in particular is already getting noticed... at least, by one NFL analyst.
Kristopher Knox ranked the top 50 free agents for Bleacher Report, and only one member of the Colts made the list: linebacker E.J. Speed. Coming in at #45, Speed made the list despite having problems with missed tackles in the 2024 season.
"Indianapolis Colts linebacker E.J. Speed fared well in a contract year, setting career highs in both total tackles and solo stops. A capable chase-and-tackle 'backer, he's also serviceable in coverage.Kristopher Knox
While Speed should be valued as a starter, his age (30 in June) and penchant for missed tackles will likely limit him to a mid-market contract."
In the 15 games he played, Speed had 142 total tackles, five passes defended, 13.5 stuffs, one blocked kick, and his first career interception. However, he missed 24 tackles.
SI argued that the Colts should let Speed go, and use the money to retain Jaylon Carlies instead:
"The former Missouri Tiger hustled and played good coverage from the linebacker spot, posting a Pro Football Focus grade of 83.1 (fourth among NFL linebackers) to go along with 36 tackles (two for loss), and a sack."Drake Wally
It's not clear how much interest there will be for Speed, but recent comments from tight end Mo Alie-Cox, who is also entering free agency, could suggest that free agents may not want to stay with the Colts. In an interview, he insinuated that his plans for free agency are finding the best opportunity to win.
"I would say just... [pause] ... winning," he said. "I mean, we've won here, but so I just -- we're like... and we've kind of been in the same position for a while. So I would just say just taking the next step forward and different things like that. I mean, not saying that we can't do that here, but like... I'm 31 now. I'm older. So just being an older veteran, things like that, just different things like that."
If Speed feels the same way, the Colts may not have a chance to even fight for him.