The Indianapolis Colts need a desperate change of strategy in how they bolster their roster, and general manager Chris Ballard has promised he understands that. Previously, Ballard has been stingy in free agency, choosing instead to invest in the players he currently has rather than bring in competition and depth. And that strategy has backfired spectacularly, as the Colts now find themselves in a position where they have so many positions to address that they are in, suffice it to say, a major bind.
There is a reality that the Colts must contend with, and that is that the draft can't address all of their issues, and they also don't have unlimited money to spend on trades or free agents. So when a talented player that won't cost a whole lot to sign, becomes available, Ballard should sit up and take notice.
Right now, that's the San Francisco 49ers' Dre Greenlaw.
Kevin Patra noted that Greenlaw is likely to be underpriced, and will be a great asset to a team in need of a linebacker, which certainly applies to Indianapolis.
"Greenlaw will probably have to take a one-year prove-it deal after an Achilles injury suffered in Super Bowl LVIII last February wiped out most of his 2024 season -- and then when he did return, in Week 15, he made two starts before suffering a calf injury that landed him on injured reserve. A short-term agreement is probably smart for all parties, allowing Greenlaw to hit the market again next year while keeping his team safe in case he can't bounce back. But I'm betting he does; I'm betting on the difference-maker Greenlaw previously proved to be on the gridiron. In one half of football in 2024, he showed how much better the 49ers defense was when he was active. He's still 27 years old, and I'd be willing to roll the dice on a return to form in 2025."Kevin Patra
The 49ers might not be willing to let go of Greenlaw - after all, the defense had some of its best performances after Greenlaw returned from his Achilles injury, and he's certainly an in-demand free agent. However, the injury issue could make San Francisco wary, and if he does walk, the Colts should be ready to snap him up.
Zaire Franklin is a standout player, and is one of the NFL's best linebackers, but there is a serious lack of depth at linebacker; E.J. Speed and Grant Stuard are both set to enter free agency, so signing a linebacker needs to be a priority for the Colts.
If he's available, Greenlaw would be a very good option.