The Indianapolis Colts have been named as the best fit for one of the veteran free agent offensive linemen that’s still available to be signed.
It goes without saying, but Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard is going to have his hands full this offseason trying to improve the roster. On both sides of the ball, some impact players are needed as soon as possible.
On offense, obviously quarterback is the No. 1 focus for Ballard and Co., with a stud QB expected to be taken No. 4 overall in the NFL Draft - or earlier if Indy trades up. However, this team will also need some experienced offensive linemen to step in and protect the future signal-caller too. How about offensive tackle Donovan Smith?
In a recent article, ESPN's Bill Barnwell wrote up a piece on the best fits for current free agents, and he likes Smith making his way to the AFC South. Would fans be up for this addition?
New column ($): Finding fits for 10 free agents and two trade candidates, including a trade for DeAndre Hopkins https://t.co/yspiiLT2VD pic.twitter.com/j7ge5VQDpq
— Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) March 22, 2023
OT Donovan Smith would be a wise signing for Colts GM Chris Ballard
" "Two years, $13 million with the Colts. Indy needs to lock down its pass protection for its next quarterback, which presumably will be its selection with the No. 4 pick. Rookie third-rounder Bernhard Raimann was prematurely thrown into the mix out of desperation last season, starting 11 games with iffy results. He ranked 60th out of 64 tackles in pass block win rate (PBWR) and allowed six sacks.""ESPN's Bill Barnwell
A 6-foot-6, 338-pounder, Smith has incredible size and he's tough to get by in the trenches. He's been fantastic for the Bucs over the years, arriving to Tampa Bay in 2015. In total, Smith appeared in 124 games for Tampa Bay (all starts) over his eight campaigns with the team.
Last season, he made 13 starts for the Bucs, but missed several games due to an elbow and foot injury. He's been quite durable throughout his career, playing in every regular season game in five of his eight pro seasons. The offensive line needs a makeover ahead of the 2023 campaign. With Smith still looking for a new home, Ballard would be wise to pick up the phone and make a run at him.
READ MORE: Colts standing in post-free agency power rankings