Free Agents Discussion

[Brylok]

Aiken is by far the best free agent WR we've ever brought in, that I can remember.
Grigson's guys were all problematic in various ways or had been injured. Avery, DHB, that other guy. Aiken is starter level who was def just a forgotten guy in Baltimore.
Other guy was Hakeem Nicks. Brandon Stokley was my favorite WR ever brought in but I'm happy about the Aiken signing.

[Puck]

Ballard and Grigs both like them some TE's

Peter Schrager‏Verified account @PSchrags (https://twitter.com/PSchrags)

Free agent TE Mychal Rivera is leaving his visit with Jets without signing a deal. Will visit with the Colts in Indy next. @gmfb (https://twitter.com/gmfb) @NFLonFOX (https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX)

[sherck]

Ballard and Grigs both like them some TE's

Peter Schrager‏Verified account @PSchrags (https://twitter.com/PSchrags)

Free agent TE Mychal Rivera is leaving his visit with Jets without signing a deal. Will visit with the Colts in Indy next. @gmfb (https://twitter.com/gmfb) @NFLonFOX (https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX)
I cannot remember where it was stated but the Colts ran the most 2TE snaps in the league last year.

We need at least 3 viable NFL TEs in order to run the offense like Chud wants.

Brandon Williams smells like a ST signing to me; not a viable NFL TE.

Cheers,

[Dam8610]

The main issue being is that he has only ever played as a 4-3 Undertackle playing in a 1-gap system both at MIA and JAX.

I am not positive that his skills translate into a 3-4 2-gap 5-tech DE well.

Cheers,

This defensive system is supposed to have a DT position that is akin to the 4-3 UT as I understand it. He would fit that position fine.

[GoBigBlue88]

Ballard and Grigs both like them some TE's

Peter Schrager‏Verified account @PSchrags (https://twitter.com/PSchrags)

Free agent TE Mychal Rivera is leaving his visit with Jets without signing a deal. Will visit with the Colts in Indy next. @gmfb (https://twitter.com/gmfb) @NFLonFOX (https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX)

To be fair, where this team has a shit feel for so many positions, TE is one of the positions where they seem to have a Midas touch.

[YDFL Commish]

I cannot remember where it was stated but the Colts ran the most 2TE snaps in the league last year.

We need at least 3 viable NFL TEs in order to run the offense like Chud wants.

Brandon Williams smells like a ST signing to me; not a viable NFL TE.

Cheers,

Other than Doyle, none of these guys are what I would call physical, blocking TE's. We need to find a snot knocker who can help out is short yardage.

I don't want Doyle's role reduced to strictly blocking again, at $6 million + per year either.

[Spike]

Ballard and Grigs both like them some TE's

Peter Schrager‏Verified account @PSchrags (https://twitter.com/PSchrags)

Free agent TE Mychal Rivera is leaving his visit with Jets without signing a deal. Will visit with the Colts in Indy next. @gmfb (https://twitter.com/gmfb) @NFLonFOX (https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX)

No brainer really, Luck vs. whatever hack the Jets are going to throw out there.

[sherck]

Hahahaha, ATL signed Thornton.

Matt Ryan's sack rate rises in 3......2........1......

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[omahacolt]

Hahahaha, ATL signed Thornton.

Matt Ryan's sack rate rises in 3......2........1......

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Good for him.

If he can stay healthy, I bet he does well

[VeveJones007]

If that's true, then fire the moron already. I don't see someone intentionally signing average guys just to wait for the next head coach.

It was reported they tried to sign Poe, so it sounds like they DID try to go after at least one big name free agent. They may have tried to offer deals to others, we don't know what all is happening there.

Two very reasonable explanations for not firing Pagano:

1) It was so late in the offseason that the new coach would not have his pick of assistants. Also, it would be hard to put in a new offense when the QB is out the entire offseason.

2) Irsay could be stalling until PM is on board so that he can pick the coach.

[VeveJones007]

Aiken is by far the best free agent WR we've ever brought in, that I can remember.
Grigson's guys were all problematic in various ways or had been injured. Avery, DHB, that other guy. Aiken is starter level who was def just a forgotten guy in Baltimore.

And he fills a real need. Very smart signing.

[Maniac]

Two very reasonable explanations for not firing Pagano:

1) It was so late in the offseason that the new coach would not have his pick of assistants. Also, it would be hard to put in a new offense when the QB is out the entire offseason.

2) Irsay could be stalling until PM is on board so that he can pick the coach.

I was kidding because if they were going to fire him, they would have done it far earlier. I just meant that if you are wasting a year hiring nobodies just to get rid of the coach, then that is a horrible way to run a team. No way would Ballard be doing that. That scenario doesn't make sense.

If Peyton does come on board at some point, why would he be the one picking the coach? It's usually the GM who does that isn't it? That would be awkward to undercut a newly hired GM's authority.

[VeveJones007]

I was kidding because if they were going to fire him, they would have done it far earlier. I just meant that if you are wasting a year hiring nobodies just to get rid of the coach, then that is a horrible way to run a team. No way would Ballard be doing that. That scenario doesn't make sense.

If Peyton does come on board at some point, why would he be the one picking the coach? It's usually the GM who does that isn't it? That would be awkward to undercut a newly hired GM's authority.

Again, I have not said that Ballard is signing "nobodies" or bums or however you want to say it.

What I have said is that he has seemingly gone out of his way to not put any more guaranteed money on the books past 2017. Yes, that fits with his stated strategy of prioritizing the draft, but I believe it's also indicative of a low risk approach to UFA specifically for this season.

There are some important reasons why Ballard may be taking that approach, which I have outlined previously.

[Puck]

This defensive system is supposed to have a DT position that is akin to the 4-3 UT as I understand it. He would fit that position fine.


As a 3 tech?

[FatDT]

As a 3 tech?

Yes. Generally speaking our odd front look features a 5 tech DE, 0 tech NT, and 3 tech DT.

[Wyatt]

@ColtsConti 28m28 minutes ago
Updated @Colts Jersey #'s:

Hunt-94
Locke-9
Mingo-52
Schwenke-66
Sheard-93
Simon-51
Spence-55
Williams-85
Woods-68

Looks like Sheard has some big shoes to fill wearing the #93 (more so for Dwight, not the most recent 93 wearer)

[Wyatt]

@KBowenColts 1h1 hour ago
The #Colts have signed 10 free agents in 2017:

-Most in history (signed 8 in 2013)

-From 2003-11, the Colts signed 10 total free agents

[VeveJones007]

@KBowenColts 1h1 hour ago
The #Colts have signed 10 free agents in 2017:

-Most in history (signed 8 in 2013)

-From 2003-11, the Colts signed 10 total free agents

Guaranteed money past 2017 on each deal:

Sheard = $0 (unless he's hurt and can't play in 2018, then he would receive an injury guarantee of $3.5MM)
Simon = $0
Locke = $0
Turbin = $0
Woods = ??
Hunt = $0
Mingo = $0
Schwenke = $0
Butler = $0
Williams = $0
Aiken = $0

I don't know about anyone else, but I detect a trend here.

[Wyatt]

@AdamSchefter 13s13 seconds ago
Former Raiders' TE Mychal Rivera has agreed to terms with the Jaguars, per @JeffDarlington.

Welp, so much for that one

[Butter]

@AdamSchefter 13s13 seconds ago
Former Raiders' TE Mychal Rivera has agreed to terms with the Jaguars, per @JeffDarlington.

Welp, so much for that one

Damn, now the Jags are sure to win the Superbowl.

[Wyatt]

@ColtsUpdate 4h4 hours ago
Report: Colts have interest in Rod Streater http://news.quiboat.com/Hb74KlE7

[sherck]

@ColtsUpdate 4h4 hours ago
Report: Colts have interest in Rod Streater http://news.quiboat.com/Hb74KlE7
Hmmm...UDFA in 2012. Became a starter in OAK and earned 174 targets in his first two seasons in the league. Was suppose to headline the Raiders passing attack with new rookie QB Carr but ended up going on IR after only 3 games in 2014 with a foot injury.

Was not recovered in 2015 (played in only 1 game) and was then not resigned following his RFA year and signed with SF last season where he worked as the WR4 behind Jeremy Kerley, Quinton Patton and Torrey Smith. 2016 stats were:

27 targets / 18 receptions / 66.7% catch rate / 191 yards / 10.6 average / 2 TD

With the terrible QBs that SF put out on the field, none of their receivers got many stats last year (their top receiver, Kerley, got 667 receiving yards last year).

I don't know what to think. He was killing it in the first two years in the league for a UDFA and then got robbed by the injury. It may be that it took 2 full years to recover from the injury or it may be that he will never recover.

If nothing else, he is, again, veteran depth with 127 receptions in the NFL who would challenge for playing time as the WR3/WR4. He has no NFL stats for Punt or Kickoff return.

Don't hate the concept because he will be cheap but I wonder what this signing would say about Ballard's confidence in Moncrief, Dorsett or Rogers?

Cheers,

[Wyatt]

@NFLDraftAdvisor 16h16 hours ago
Former Cincinnati RB Tion Green has pre draft visits lined up with Colts(tomorrow) and Lions. Has already met with Bengals.

[FatDT]

I remember Streater. I picked him up in fantasy in 2013 and he played well. Seems like another "forgotten man" type pick up. 6'3, 200 lbs. Topped out with 60/888/4 in 2013.

I dont' have any expectations. I kind of wonder what all the focus on the WRs is for. Defense could still use some guys.

[Puck]

I remember Streater. I picked him up in fantasy in 2013 and he played well. Seems like another "forgotten man" type pick up. 6'3, 200 lbs. Topped out with 60/888/4 in 2013.

I dont' have any expectations. I kind of wonder what all the focus on the WRs is for. Defense could still use some guys.


Is Moncreif coming up in a contract yr? I think they try to deal away Dorsett...

[GoBigBlue88]

I remember Streater. I picked him up in fantasy in 2013 and he played well. Seems like another "forgotten man" type pick up. 6'3, 200 lbs. Topped out with 60/888/4 in 2013.

I dont' have any expectations. I kind of wonder what all the focus on the WRs is for. Defense could still use some guys.

If Colts sign Streater, they aren't playing about competition. I think training camp could be brutal this year. Like, beyond Luck and Hilton (and Kelly and a few others)...it's every man for himself for a roster spot.

Should be one of the more fascinating offseasons around here in a while. There is pretty much zero guarantee how the depth chart will shake out anywhere. Ballard isn't married to more than a handful of these guys. Unless Pagano lets a TJ Green chub dictate things, starting lineups will look drastically differently in 2017.

[omahacolt]

Streater shouldn't be signed. As most fans would say, he is never healthy

[sherck]

Is Moncreif coming up in a contract yr? I think they try to deal away Dorsett...
Colts Free Agents after 2017 season:
CB Vontae Davis **
RB Frank Gore **
CB Darius Butler *
PK Adam Vinatieri **
OLB Akeem Ayers
OLB Barkevious Mingo
QB Scott Tolzien
OC/OG Brian Schwenke *
OG Jack Mewhort **
TE Brandon Williams
OLB Lavar Edwards
FS Duke Williams
CB Rashaan Melvin *
WR Donte Moncrief **
CB Charles James
WR Kamar Aiken *

** Known Starters
* Possible Starters

Ballard is going to have A LOT of decisions to make on guys next year.

Cheers,

[VeveJones007]

Colts Free Agents after 2017 season:
CB Vontae Davis **
RB Frank Gore **
CB Darius Butler *
PK Adam Vinatieri **
OLB Akeem Ayers
OLB Barkevious Mingo
QB Scott Tolzien
OC/OG Brian Schwenke *
OG Jack Mewhort **
TE Brandon Williams
OLB Lavar Edwards
FS Duke Williams
CB Rashaan Melvin *
WR Donte Moncrief **
CB Charles James
WR Kamar Aiken *

** Known Starters
* Possible Starters

Ballard is going to have A LOT of decisions to make on guys next year.

Cheers,

And lots of $$$ available for re-signing or UFAs.

[sherck]

And lots of $$$ available for re-signing or UFAs.
True.

If cap rises to around $174m, then the Colts have around $65m free.

Add to that any unused 2017 cap space.

Back off $10m for draft class, churn space and practice squad for $55m free.

And my guess is that we will have around $60m to spend on new contracts.

Cutting Arthur Jones will add another $6.250m to that number. If he does not show up this year....

Lots of space.

Cheers,

[Wyatt]

@Colts 19s20 seconds ago
We have signed LS Joe Fortunato: http://indcolts.co/JzEfju

Hopefully Matty O isn't going anywhere, but we have a new LS signed

[sherck]

@Colts 19s20 seconds ago
We have signed LS Joe Fortunato: http://indcolts.co/JzEfju

Hopefully Matty O isn't going anywhere, but we have a new LS signed
Good golly, when Ballard says he wants competition everywhere......

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Wyatt]

Although to be fair, almost 1 year ago we also signed another LS named Forrest Hill

[Butter]

Cutting Arthur Jones will add another $6.250m to that number. If he does not show up this year....

Lots of space.

Cheers,

I am pretty surprised he is still here.

[njcoltfan]

I am pretty surprised he is still here.

Maybe the Colt's NT this year ??

[Butter]

Maybe the Colt's NT this year ??

I sure as hell hope they are not counting on him,dude can't stay healthy.

[Luck4Reich]

Maybe the Colt's NT this year ??

Doesn't look that way...thank God

[GoBigBlue88]

Any chance Colts trade for Wilkerson? Latest reports have Jets asking for a 4th... Do you pull the trigger if that's true?

[Blue Thunder]

How old is he? and how much would he cost? Sherck? If reasonable yes. That's about where we'd draft an NT anyway.

[sherck]

How old is he? and how much would he cost? Sherck? If reasonable yes. That's about where we'd draft an NT anyway.
27 years old
Plays 5-tech DE in Jets system
$15m cap hit in 2017 (for us)
$17m cap hit in 2018 (for us)
$15.5m cap hit in 2019 (for us)
$16.5m cap hit in 2020 (for us)
There are no true 3-4 NT in draft that will probably be drafted before the 5th round; none are difference makers

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[ukcolt]

That's an awful lot of money to take on if we were to. But he might be that much of a difference maker that it could be worth it, but i am not so sure i would pull the trigger.

[smitty46953]

27 years old
Plays 5-tech DE in Jets system
$15m cap hit in 2017 (for us)
$17m cap hit in 2018 (for us)
$15.5m cap hit in 2019 (for us)
$16.5m cap hit in 2020 (for us)
There are no true 3-4 NT in draft that will probably be drafted before the 5th round; none are difference makers

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Sounds like a lot of $$$, I would pass and try for Hankins ... :cool:

[Blue Thunder]

Wow...no thanks that's a lot of cap. If we released Langford would it make sense then? Seems it would be a production upgrade. And, your really got me worried about NT now. There has to be a plan. Al Woods is it? and then a late round draft choice? I'm starting to miss liquored up Parry.

[sherck]

We are just not fixing NT this year, I don't think.

Parry, Woods and perhaps a rookie in some combo is what we will have. But the rookie will be, most likely, Just Another Guy.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Dam8610]

27 years old
Plays 5-tech DE in Jets system
$15m cap hit in 2017 (for us)
$17m cap hit in 2018 (for us)
$15.5m cap hit in 2019 (for us)
$16.5m cap hit in 2020 (for us)
There are no true 3-4 NT in draft that will probably be drafted before the 5th round; none are difference makers

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Muhammad Wilkerson will not play NT even if the Colts somehow traded for him. That said, the upside of the contract seen here is that literally none of it would be guaranteed, so either he renegotiates for less money and long term security or the Colts would have him on an entirely contingent basis, with no penalty to cut him if he's a problem at any time. He's worth looking at, but I wouldn't want to give them much for him, especially since that cap number would greatly limit his market. A 2018 3 that becomes a 2 if he makes the Pro Bowl sounds reasonable.

[VeveJones007]

We are just not fixing NT this year, I don't think.

Parry, Woods and perhaps a rookie in some combo is what we will have. But the rookie will be, most likely, Just Another Guy.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

We don't know that the Colts will be running a 3-4 in 2018. It doesn't make sense to invest a lot into fixing that position for 2017.

[omahacolt]

We don't know that the Colts will be running a 3-4 in 2018. It doesn't make sense to invest a lot into fixing that position for 2017.

It doesn't make sense to have Pagano as a lame duck coach

[natagu23]

We are just not fixing NT this year, I don't think.

Parry, Woods and perhaps a rookie in some combo is what we will have. But the rookie will be, most likely, Just Another Guy.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Apparently not.

The draft perhaps? All those guys either suck or arent true NTs, so nope.

Parry has played admirably, but we saw last year that he was beginning to wear down. I dont see him as a starter. A good rotational guy....not a starter.

[Blue Thunder]

It's been real quiet about Parry's situation. I may be wrong but it seems to me he's in quite a bit of trouble in Arizona. If he somehow escapes jail time he surely will get some sort of NFL induced suspension. Am I wrong thinking this way? If any of you know anymore I'd like to hear it. I'm not counting on him playing for the Colts this year.

[Butter]

I don't see how he escapes a few game suspension at the least,but the whole system the league has for punishment is mysterious.

[VeveJones007]

It doesn't make sense to have Pagano as a lame duck coach

That's Irsay's fault for not ripping off the bandaid before the end of January.

[Brylok]

That's Irsay's fault for not ripping off the bandaid before the end of January.
Hell, he didn't even want to get rid of Grigson. It took a psychological study to finally force his hand.

[VeveJones007]

Hell, he didn't even want to get rid of Grigson. It took a psychological study to finally force his hand.

Or a preliminary agreement with PM...or Irsay is just irrational...or...

[apballin]

It doesn't make sense to have Pagano as a lame duck coach

he's not a lame duck hes already said hes coaching for his job every year so is every coach not named billicheck or tomlin

[VeveJones007]

he's not a lame duck hes already said hes coaching for his job every year so is every coach not named billicheck or tomlin

The writing's on the wall. No guaranteed money past 2017 on any of 10+ free agents means that this coaching staff is being sent out to pasture.

[Spike]

he's not a lame duck hes already said hes coaching for his job every year so is every coach not named billicheck or tomlin

I wouldn't be sure on Tomlin, he isn't worth a shit either.

[Mr. Session]

I think maybe because of the Rooney rule they feel it would look bad if they fired a minority coach, especially one who has won a Super Bowl.

The Steelers have absolutely embarrassed Indianapolis every time they've played for the last what? 3 years?

I was disgusted with the showing Pittsburgh put up against New England in the Title game this year, but Pittsburgh is still the only team in the conference that has enough of their shit together to challenge New England.

Tomlin essentially has Pittsburgh playing at the same level his predecessor did. Almost every year they are in the discussion and they consistently make deep playoff runs. They still dominate the AFC North and they still get the better of both their competent rivals (Baltimore/Cincinnati).

He hasn't been fired because he's good at his fucking job. Pittsburgh fans have no reason to stop buying tickets, that team may be more exciting now than it was when they won the superbowl.

[Butter]

The Steelers have absolutely embarrassed Indianapolis every time they've played for the last what? 3 years?

I was disgusted with the showing Pittsburgh put up against New England in the Title game this year, but Pittsburgh is still the only team in the conference that has enough of their shit together to challenge New England.

Tomlin essentially has Pittsburgh playing at the same level his predecessor did. Almost every year they are in the discussion and they consistently make deep playoff runs. They still dominate the AFC North and they still get the better of both their competent rivals (Baltimore/Cincinnati).

He hasn't been fired because he's good at his fucking job. Pittsburgh fans have no reason to stop buying tickets, that team may be more exciting now than it was when they won the superbowl.

Pretty hard to argue with that, except racism.

[VeveJones007]

The Steelers have absolutely embarrassed Indianapolis every time they've played for the last what? 3 years?

I was disgusted with the showing Pittsburgh put up against New England in the Title game this year, but Pittsburgh is still the only team in the conference that has enough of their shit together to challenge New England.

Tomlin essentially has Pittsburgh playing at the same level his predecessor did. Almost every year they are in the discussion and they consistently make deep playoff runs. They still dominate the AFC North and they still get the better of both their competent rivals (Baltimore/Cincinnati).

He hasn't been fired because he's good at his fucking job. Pittsburgh fans have no reason to stop buying tickets, that team may be more exciting now than it was when they won the superbowl.

I agree that Tomlin is a pretty good coach, but you're overstating the case in a few places here. Pittsburgh has not dominated the AFC North. Cincinnati has done better in that division over the last five years.

Also, Pittsburgh's defense has been a limiting factor for them the past several years. It's easy to understand that a defense-minded head coach would catch some flak for a consistently underperforming defense. Isn't that one of the things we frequently hold against Pagano?

[Spike]

The Steelers have absolutely embarrassed Indianapolis every time they've played for the last what? 3 years?

I was disgusted with the showing Pittsburgh put up against New England in the Title game this year, but Pittsburgh is still the only team in the conference that has enough of their shit together to challenge New England.

Tomlin essentially has Pittsburgh playing at the same level his predecessor did. Almost every year they are in the discussion and they consistently make deep playoff runs. They still dominate the AFC North and they still get the better of both their competent rivals (Baltimore/Cincinnati).

He hasn't been fired because he's good at his fucking job. Pittsburgh fans have no reason to stop buying tickets, that team may be more exciting now than it was when they won the superbowl.

They beat the Colts because they have superior talent. For the most part anytime you have an elite QB facing the Colts, it will probably be a blowout.

After that AFC playoff game against the Pats, numerous Steeler fans were pretty pissed off at the lack of Tomlin's game planning and in game adjustments (Sounds a lot like Pagano).

Steelers are not a well disciplined team, Rapistberger said so himself.

Terry Bradshaw said, well never mind what Bradshaw said, he's a fucking idiot.

The Steelers don't dominate the AFC North. Since 2004, the Ravens have a winning record against the Steelers.

http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/pittsburgh-steelers-opinions-reactions-news-updates/2016/11/8/13552000/plain-and-simple-the-baltimore-ravens-own-the-pittsburgh-steelers-mike-tomlin-john-harbaugh

[Mr. Session]

They beat the Colts because they have superior talent. For the most part anytime you have an elite QB facing the Colts, it will probably be a blowout.

After that AFC playoff game against the Pats, numerous Steeler fans were pretty pissed off at the lack of Tomlin's game planning and in game adjustments (Sounds a lot like Pagano).

Steelers are not a well disciplined team, Rapistberger said so himself.

Terry Bradshaw said, well never mind what Bradshaw said, he's a fucking idiot.

The Steelers don't dominate the AFC North. Since 2004, the Ravens have a winning record against the Steelers.

http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/pittsburgh-steelers-opinions-reactions-news-updates/2016/11/8/13552000/plain-and-simple-the-baltimore-ravens-own-the-pittsburgh-steelers-mike-tomlin-john-harbaugh

When did Tomlin take over? 07? Pitt has won the North 5 times in that span. Cincinatti has taken the title 3 times and Baltimore only twice.

Baltimore is 1-2 against Tomlin in playoff games, Cincinatti is 0-1.

[Luck4Reich]

When did Tomlin take over? 07? Pitt has won the North 5 times in that span. Cincinatti has taken the title 3 times and Baltimore only twice.

Baltimore is 1-2 against Tomlin in playoff games, Cincinatti is 0-1.

Who gives. RATS ass.... I thought this thread was about Free Agency.

[Puck]

Who gives. RATS ass.... I thought this thread was about Free Agency.

Good point... lets get this back to FA discussion in this thread.
We can move the other posts to a new thread if people want to keep discussing Tomlin. Let us know

[Racehorse]

It doesn't make sense to have Pagano as a head coach

I know you hate when people edit your posts, but it had to be edited for accuracy.

[Wyatt]

@pfrumors 10m10 minutes ago
Jets To Sign Jonotthan Harrison http://www.profootballrumors.com/2017/03/jets-to-sign-jonotthan-harrison …

[Wyatt]

@PaulKuharskyNFL 4m4 minutes ago
Former Colts OLB Erik Walden visited the Titans on March 13. He fired his agent, Todd France, three days later.... http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId=21-0638399075447741588-4 …

[sherck]

@PaulKuharskyNFL 4m4 minutes ago
Former Colts OLB Erik Walden visited the Titans on March 13. He fired his agent, Todd France, three days later.... http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId=21-0638399075447741588-4 …
Poor Erik.

I liked what he brought to Indy. I had low expectations and he exceeded them all. He, arguable, was the best free agent (not counting V.Davis trade) that Grigson made.

And, he has a career year in his free agency year. My guess is that he was expecting to get signed for Jabaal Sheard money ($8m a year) pretty quickly.

And the NFL just yawned and went in other directions.

Last 4 seasons:

60 games / 175 tackles / 23.0 sacks / 05 PD / Erik Walden (31 years old)
57 games / 150 tackles / 20.5 sacks / 13 PD / Jabaal Sheard (27 years old)

What a difference being under 30 or over 30 means in the NFL.

Cheers,

[Puck]

Poor Erik.

I liked what he brought to Indy. I had low expectations and he exceeded them all. He, arguable, was the best free agent (not counting V.Davis trade) that Grigson made.

And, he has a career year in his free agency year. My guess is that he was expecting to get signed for Jabaal Sheard money ($8m a year) pretty quickly.

And the NFL just yawned and went in other directions.

Last 4 seasons:

60 games / 175 tackles / 23.0 sacks / 05 PD / Erik Walden (31 years old)
57 games / 150 tackles / 20.5 sacks / 13 PD / Jabaal Sheard (27 years old)

What a difference being under 30 or over 30 means in the NFL.

Cheers,

Reggie Wayne

[Racehorse]

Reggie Wayne
Of course, you know that one doesn't count.

[sherck]

Reggie Wayne
I was, indeed, thinking of free agency deals that brought new bodies to the Colts.

However, I will agree with you that retaining Reggie was probably the best move Grigson made overall because I am sure that it helped advance Luck's grasp of the game greatly.

Cheers,

[Coltsalr]

As much as some like to label every bad free agent signing as "Ah, that was clearly a Pagano guy!", Reggie Wayne was very much a Pagano guy.

Reggie and Pagano have both talked about how Pagano recruited him back by saying "I'm gonna need you to take a leap of faith with me" and how because of that, he turned down more money from the Patriots to come back to the Colts.

[omahacolt]

As much as some like to label every bad free agent signing as "Ah, that was clearly a Pagano guy!", Reggie Wayne was very much a Pagano guy.

Reggie and Pagano have both talked about how Pagano recruited him back by saying "I'm gonna need you to take a leap of faith with me" and how because of that, he turned down more money from the Patriots to come back to the Colts.

as much as some like to speak in absolutes like a fucking douchebag


wayne was definitely a pagano guy. but more importantly a colts guy.

[Mr. Session]

Poor Erik.

I liked what he brought to Indy. I had low expectations and he exceeded them all. He, arguable, was the best free agent (not counting V.Davis trade) that Grigson made.

And, he has a career year in his free agency year. My guess is that he was expecting to get signed for Jabaal Sheard money ($8m a year) pretty quickly.

And the NFL just yawned and went in other directions.

Last 4 seasons:

60 games / 175 tackles / 23.0 sacks / 05 PD / Erik Walden (31 years old)
57 games / 150 tackles / 20.5 sacks / 13 PD / Jabaal Sheard (27 years old)

What a difference being under 30 or over 30 means in the NFL.

Cheers,

I really agree with this.

Walden wasn't the All-Pro linebacker a team builds a defense around but I never really felt he was a liability.

I think the guy did everything we could reasonably ask of him, in addition to having a "I'll kick your fucking ass" attitude that this defense has needed for years. I know he was a straight up thug for that headbutt to Delanie Walker, but I'll always love him for that. It was nice to watch our defense be the asshole bullies, for once.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JzLgC6PTj_U/UoWKTtdYH2I/AAAAAAAADg8/oyMMkNttucs/s400/BUTT1.gif

I said it then; I'll say it again. Keep your hat on if you want to talk that action, boss.

[Dam8610]

Poor Erik.

I liked what he brought to Indy. I had low expectations and he exceeded them all. He, arguable, was the best free agent (not counting V.Davis trade) that Grigson made.

And, he has a career year in his free agency year. My guess is that he was expecting to get signed for Jabaal Sheard money ($8m a year) pretty quickly.

And the NFL just yawned and went in other directions.

Last 4 seasons:

60 games / 175 tackles / 23.0 sacks / 05 PD / Erik Walden (31 years old)
57 games / 150 tackles / 20.5 sacks / 13 PD / Jabaal Sheard (27 years old)

What a difference being under 30 or over 30 means in the NFL.

Cheers,

Under 30 and good in coverage vs. over 30 and poor in coverage.

[Wyatt]

@ColtsUpdate 6h6 hours ago
Former Colts Cornerback Patrick Robinson Signs With Eagles

[sherck]

@ColtsUpdate 6h6 hours ago
Former Colts Cornerback Patrick Robinson Signs With Eagles
Honestly, good luck to Robinson and Jon Harrison (signed by NYJ). I do not dislike either but neither were more than just okay.

Hope they both get paid a lot of money in their future NFL career.

Cheers,

[njcoltfan]

Zack Brown signed by Redskins pending a physical, according to PFT. Terms were not disclosed.

[Puck]

Zack Brown signed by Redskins pending a physical, according to PFT. Terms were not disclosed.



Ian Rapoport‏ @RapSheet

#Redskins LB Zach Brown signed a 1-year deal worth a maximum value of $4.65M, source said. $500k signing bonus. Not bad this late in FA.

[Coltsalr]

Fun fact: The Colts signed 10 outside free agents this offseason, which is a franchise record, apparently.

http://m.colts.com/news/article-1/Colts-Sign-Most-Free-Agents-In-Team-History/e0e1549c-e144-4d70-9073-506f8d1e5d3f

[omahacolt]

Fun fact: The Colts signed 10 outside free agents this offseason, which is a franchise record, apparently.

http://m.colts.com/news/article-1/Colts-Sign-Most-Free-Agents-In-Team-History/e0e1549c-e144-4d70-9073-506f8d1e5d3f

and they are all backups

[Coltsalr]

and they are all backups

That are better than the "starters" that the previous GM brought in.

[Puck]

and they are all backups


3 will be starters and there will be improvement from last yr because of them

Actually maybe 4 will be if they don't draft Lamp

[omahacolt]

That are better than the "starters" that the previous GM brought in.

to be determined. they weren't starters for their old teams for a reason.

[omahacolt]

3 will be starters and there will be improvement from last yr because of them

Actually maybe 4 will be if they don't draft Lamp

our defense improves mostly if langford and anderson get healthy and back to normal. not the average joes ballard brought in

[indycolts2]

How about we hope Ballard's average joes are better than Grigson's average joes? We at least know the Colts got younger and should get better production out of his additions than those Colts who either retired or were released. Obviously it gets easier if as Omaha points out Anderson and Langford come back healthy and revert back to what is expected.

[natagu23]

How about we hope Ballard's average joes are better than Grigson's average joes? We at least know the Colts got younger and should get better production out of his additions than those Colts who either retired or were released. Obviously it gets easier if as Omaha points out Anderson and Langford come back healthy and revert back to what is expected.

Im hoping.... but average Joes are average Joes no matter who's the GM.

[Coltsalr]

Grigson didn't bring in average Joes, he brought in Godawful Jills.

Trent Richardson, LaRon Landry, Trent Cole, etc were all worse than you would expect a street free agent to be.

[Racehorse]

It sucks that we are arguing over which GM picked up the best scrubs.

[VeveJones007]

our defense improves mostly if langford and anderson get healthy and back to normal. not the average joes ballard brought in

Absolutely, as the roster currently stands. The true difference will be from the draft (hopefully).

[Brylok]

Absolutely, as the roster currently stands. The true difference will be from the draft (hopefully).
That looks like the plan. Establish a base of defensive guys that are solid but not great, and draft the future greats. Just don't screw up the draft!

[VeveJones007]

That looks like the plan. Establish a base of defensive guys that are solid but not great, and draft the future greats. Just don't screw up the draft!

Yep, but you can never afford to screw up the draft, regardless of your free agent strategy.

At the same time, they are going to have plenty of cap space next year that I hope they add one or two real difference-makers, but I've already elaborated on that throughout these threads.

[Puck]

Yep, but you can never afford to screw up the draft, regardless of your free agent strategy.

At the same time, they are going to have plenty of cap space next year that I hope they add one or two real difference-makers, but I've already elaborated on that throughout these threads.

Take a look at KC's cap situation. On top of that they have to add 10 draft picks somehow. I bet there is either some cuts going to happen or they will be trading this yrs picks for next yrs etc...

http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/cap/


maybe some players Ballard has an idea that will be casualties in the coming weeks IDK

[omahacolt]

Absolutely, as the roster currently stands. The true difference will be from the draft (hopefully).

that is pretty sad

considering we had 50 million to spend, play in a very winnable division, and need talent everywhere.

[omahacolt]

That looks like the plan. Establish a base of defensive guys that are solid but not great, and draft the future greats. Just don't screw up the draft!

great plan


and in 3 years we will be calling for him to be fired for being terrible in free agency

[apballin]

Great strategy to me signed up and coming guys that played on good defenses and couldn't get on the field right away because they played behind good players. IMO Sheard and Simon's game is trending up and neither is too beat up

[Brylok]

great plan


and in 3 years we will be calling for him to be fired for being terrible in free agency
In three years? Sure, maybe. But you can say that about any GM in the league, let alone a rookie new-hire. I like what Ballard has done so far, and I'm at least willing to give him a chance. You post as if he's already a failure.

[Brylok]

Great strategy to me signed up and coming guys that played on good defenses and couldn't get on the field right away because they played behind good players. IMO Sheard and Simon's game is trending up and neither is too beat up
I would have liked to bring in some proven playmakers, but maybe we already did and don't realize it yet. Aiken, Simon and perhaps Sheard could be very good for us.

[omahacolt]

In three years? Sure, maybe. But you can say that about any GM in the league, let alone a rookie new-hire. I like what Ballard has done so far, and I'm at least willing to give him a chance. You post as if he's already a failure.

i don't know what he is yet. but i am not thrilled so far.

but with a lot of money to spend, eventually you have to use it on talent and not backups. or you won't have talent.

building through the draft is a great strategy but at best you are going to hit on 50 to 60 percent of the players. and not all of those will be stars. if you have the cash, you use it to bring in talent. if he is unwilling to do that, then he will have a very hard time being successful.

[Brylok]

i don't know what he is yet. but i am not thrilled so far.

but with a lot of money to spend, eventually you have to use it on talent and not backups. or you won't have talent.

building through the draft is a great strategy but at best you are going to hit on 50 to 60 percent of the players. and not all of those will be stars. if you have the cash, you use it to bring in talent. if he is unwilling to do that, then he will have a very hard time being successful.
I agree with all of that, but I just don't think the Colts were in the position to go after the expensive talent. Outside of a handful of players, that defense is/was a shambles. And it wasn't getting any younger either. I think they need to build a foundation first and then add better talent later. It looks like Ballard is trying to do that. I'm expecting it to take at least two years. I agree with your post, but the timing is wrong.

[omahacolt]

I agree with all of that, but I just don't think the Colts were in the position to go after the expensive talent. Outside of a handful of players, that defense is/was a shambles. And it wasn't getting any younger either. I think they need to build a foundation first and then add better talent later. It looks like Ballard is trying to do that. I'm expecting it to take at least two years. I agree with your post, but the timing is wrong.

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?

[sherck]

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?
Anderson, Ridgeway, Parry, Simon, Sheard, E Jackson, Morrison, Geathers. Green. Most are in the "solid" to above average category. None are in the "great" category but if Anderdon could return to form he could be.

Add 4 more solid players from the 2017 draft to add to V Davis and a stud or two from next year's free agency class and we are much closer to a solid defense than a "gloom & doom" prophet like you will admit.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[apballin]

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?

I'd say Butler, Davis, Langford, and potentially Simon

[Brylok]

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?
Yeah, that's the elephant in the room about not bringing any big names in. I'm thinking along the same line as sherck's last post. Some of the foundational guys will have to come in the draft, but we have some guys already who can do it this year. But I don't know who the Redding-like leader of that group will be (if anyone).

[omahacolt]

Anderson, Ridgeway, Parry, Simon, Sheard, E Jackson, Morrison, Geathers. Green. Most are in the "solid" to above average category. None are in the "great" category but if Anderdon could return to form he could be.

Add 4 more solid players from the 2017 draft to add to V Davis and a stud or two from next year's free agency class and we are much closer to a solid defense than a "gloom & doom" prophet like you will admit.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

That is a very laughable list. Especially since green is on there. But pretty much all of that foundation is grigsons.

That is a foundation of backups.

[Brylok]

That is a very laughable list. Especially since green is on there. But pretty much all of that foundation is grigsons.

That is a foundation of backups.
Yeah, it pretty much is. But it's a foundation containing a lot more youth with potential than what we had before. What would you have done differently? Spend $40M on 3-4 established players and roll with what we had?

[Racehorse]

That is a very laughable list. Especially since green is on there. But pretty much all of that foundation is grigsons.

That is a foundation of backups.
The only way to tke that list is that Grigson is gone for being an ass, not for being inept at building a team.

[Dam8610]

Anderson, Ridgeway, Parry, Simon, Sheard, E Jackson, Morrison, Geathers. Green. Most are in the "solid" to above average category. None are in the "great" category but if Anderdon could return to form he could be.

Add 4 more solid players from the 2017 draft to add to V Davis and a stud or two from next year's free agency class and we are much closer to a solid defense than a "gloom & doom" prophet like you will admit.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Sorry, can't take anything that lists Antonio Morrison as "solid", a "foundational player", or anything other than "needs replaced immediately" seriously. You've seriously overrated a lot of those players, mostly the Grigson holdovers you listed. I wouldn't consider any of Ridgeway, Parry, Jackson, Morrison, Geathers, or Green to be "solid", aka an average NFL starter. Some of them have the potential to get there, but even that list is short (Ridgeway, Geathers, Green). This is why defense needs to be the focus of the draft, the Colts defense is still bottom half of the league at best after adding a lot of pieces through free agency because they lack top end talent at most positions on that side of the ball. That talent is most often and best acquired through the draft.

[Colt Classic]

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?

So who should they have pursued in this free agency? Should they have offered 10-20% more in salary than what those players received? That's probably a minimum the Colts would've had to add to an offer, assuming each player's decision was based solely on money. Joe All-Pro gets an offer of 4 years 40 mil, Colts can't just offer 4 years 41 mil and have them begging to sign here instead since the team is in a bit of structural disarray.

[Dam8610]

So who should they have pursued in this free agency? Should they have offered 10-20% more in salary than what those players received? That's probably a minimum the Colts would've had to add to an offer, assuming each player's decision was based solely on money. Joe All-Pro gets an offer of 4 years 40 mil, Colts can't just offer 4 years 41 mil and have them begging to sign here instead since the team is in a bit of structural disarray.

Your arguments are a bit contradictory here. If it was all about the money for the players, a 4 year, $41 million deal would in fact top a 4 year, $40 million deal.

[Colt Classic]

Your arguments are a bit contradictory here. If it was all about the money for the players, a 4 year, $41 million deal would in fact top a 4 year, $40 million deal.

I'm saying that the Colts aren't a top destination for free agents so an additional million dollars isn't typically going to be enough to get someone to change where they ended up going in free agency. The Colts would have to offer more than just the offer the guy signed, plus a dollar. Their offer would have to be considerably more.

Any marquee free agent could choose from a dozen other teams who have as good as, or better, of a situation than the Colts, especially when talking about the defensive side of the ball. Situation meaning everything from coaching structure, philosophy, teammates who will pull their weight to help the marquee player keep his numbers up (so he's not always covering for some JAG next to him who isn't getting it done).

[apballin]

That is a very laughable list. Especially since green is on there. But pretty much all of that foundation is grigsons.

That is a foundation of backups.

You can't sign a free agent and expect him to be a foundation player

who was out there? Calais Campbell?

To me resigning Butler was keeping a foundation player especially at Safety he could end up being an all pro next year

[omahacolt]

You can't sign a free agent and expect him to be a foundation player

who was out there? Calais Campbell?

To me resigning Butler was keeping a foundation player especially at Safety he could end up being an all pro next year

You can't? Peyton Manning? Kurt warner? Reggie white? Charles Woodson? Jerry rice? Willie roaf. Need I continue

[Butter]

You can't? Peyton Manning? Kurt warner? Reggie white? Charles Woodson? Jerry rice? Willie roaf. Need I continue

I am not going to pick a part that whole list, but Manning was not a really a foundation player signing for Denver, he put them over the top.

[Dam8610]

I am not going to pick a part that whole list, but Manning was not a really a foundation player signing for Denver, he put them over the top.

What? Manning was a franchise QB for them for two years. That's necessary to succeed in the NFL, unless you have an incredible defense. He wasn't an ancillary piece for them until 2015. Prior to that, he was a key component of their team.

[Butter]

What? Manning was a franchise QB for them for two years. That's necessary to succeed in the NFL, unless you have an incredible defense. He wasn't an ancillary piece for them until 2015. Prior to that, he was a key component of their team.

They had a solid team and brought Manning in to take them over the top. The foundation of a solid team was in place.

[rcubed]

^^^ the defense was their foundation.

[Dam8610]

They had a solid team and brought Manning in to take them over the top. The foundation of a solid team was in place.

They won a weak division with an 8-8 record the year prior and their offense was the driving force behind their appearance in Super Bowl XLVIII. You can say that team had a solid foundation in place, but not while simultaneously saying this one doesn't.

[Colt Classic]

Bears waived DB Tracy Porter. Any use here for him?

[VeveJones007]

^^^ the defense was their foundation.

They also had Demaryius and Julius Thomas and Eric Decker, giving PM good players to work with on the outside.

[sherck]

Bears waived DB Tracy Porter. Any use here for him?
Yes.

This is the kind of vet CB signing I would expect Ballard to make. Cap or surprise cut of a guy who has started a lot of games in the NFL, has 21 PDs over past 2 seasons, is only 31 years old and will be pretty cheap. He has played a lot of press coverage in his career.

He would be a great 1 year insurance policy as a marker for a highly drafted rookie to have to come in and beat in order to become the CB2.

There will be others as the off season continues but I hope we sign Porter or someone like him who can give solid service and be someone that highly motivated rookies can work to beat.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Wyatt]

I wouldn't mind seeing him come back "home" to Indiana...even if he was on the other side of the Hank Baskett game

[Brylok]

I wouldn't mind seeing him come back "home" to Indiana...even if he was on the other side of the Hank Baskett game
That name should never be mentioned on this forum.

[Puck]

Field Yates‏Verified account @FieldYates (https://twitter.com/FieldYates) 1h1 hour ago (https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/851892789101154304)




Source: DT Johnathan Hankins visited the Colts today. Arguably the top free agent still available.

[sherck]

Field Yates‏Verified account @FieldYates (https://twitter.com/FieldYates) 1h1 hour ago (https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/851892789101154304)




Source: DT Johnathan Hankins visited the Colts today. Arguably the top free agent still available.
So, would this be the "big" free agent signing some on here crave?

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Oldcolt]

He would help solidify the line.

[Butter]

Field Yates‏Verified account @FieldYates (https://twitter.com/FieldYates) 1h1 hour ago (https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/851892789101154304)




Source: DT Johnathan Hankins visited the Colts today. Arguably the top free agent still available.

Does he project as a NT in the Colts 3-4? Regardless he is young and talented, has long as it is a smart contract like we have seen the Colts write the last 5 years, then I am all for it.

[smitty46953]

So, would this be the "big" free agent signing some on here crave?

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

He is a rather large human being ... :cool:

[sherck]

Does he project as a NT in the Colts 3-4? Regardless he is young and talented, has long as it is a smart contract like we have seen the Colts write the last 5 years, then I am all for it.
His college draft profile projected him to either a 4-3 or 3-4 NT defense.

The big question will be if he wants to stay in a 1-gap shooting system or av2-gap clogging defense. The glory is much different for the NT spot.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[smitty46953]

His college draft profile projected him to either a 4-3 or 3-4 NT defense.

The big question will be if he wants to stay in a 1-gap shooting system or av2-gap clogging defense. The glory is much different for the NT spot.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

I was just looking that up ... :cool:

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013/profiles/johnathan-hankins?id=2540147


Overview

Similar to Vernon Gholston a few years back, Hankins was a three-star high school recruit out of Michigan who the Buckeyes lured to Columbus. His size, power, and athleticism made him a two-time all-state pick at Southeastern High School, but his hustle in combination with those physical attributes is what gives him a chance to be a first round prospect in much the same way Dan “Big Daddy” Wilkinson was with the Buckeyes before he became the last defensive tackle selected No. 1 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1994.




Ohio State coaches liked what they saw from “Big Hank” as a true freshman in 2010 (16 tackles, 1.5 for loss) so much that they played him in every game and named him the team’s most outstanding first-year defender. As a sophomore, he was the Buckeyes’ most outstanding defensive player and earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors (by coaches and media) after making 68 stops, 11 for loss and three sacks. Hankins still decided to slim down a bit after the 2011 season to add increased stamina and quickness. He started all 12 games for the Buckeyes as a junior again and earned First Team All-Big Ten honors with 55 tackles, 4 for loss and one sack. Knowing his combination of size, strength and quickness would be attractive at the next level, Hankins decided to skip his senior year in Columbus and go pro.


Analysis

Strengths Nice job against the run, tracking the play with his eyes and using his body to force the issue. Taller nose tackle prospect with thick upper body and extra girth in the middle. Plays all over the line, often outside the tackle despite his build because of his rare agility. Extends to shrug off blocks and uses his hands to bully blockers, controlling the POA and setting the edge when playing outside. Has extremely strong hands to secure tackles and finish plays once he gets his hands on the ballcarrier. Comes off the ball hard and quick for his size, will win a gap and blow up plays in the backfield if linemen don’t get to the reach-block. Drives back NFL-caliber guards into the backfield and holds up doubles, does not give ground even against better players. Works down the line to get to ballcarriers while engaged, and hustles downfield and to the sideline if needed. Three-down player, on the field for a lot of snaps considering his bulk.

Weaknesses Lacks the burst to be an elite pass rusher, though he can make quarterbacks uncomfortable in the pocket. Can play with high pads, giving better linemen a chance to stand him up. Relies too much on his upper body strength at times and needs to play with consistent leverage. He uses his body too much and needs to consistently utilize his hands and limbs. Must keep his weight under control to maximize his athleticism, and make sure he doesn’t lose his strength and hustle at the end of games. He tends to wear down throughout the course of a game, looking fatigued and noticeably taking plays off. Hankins battled a minor knee sprain the past two seasons, wearing a brace much of the time.

NFL Comparison Terrance Knighton

Bottom Line Hankins, who carried the nickname “Big John” or “Big Hank” around Ohio State’s campus, is a load to handle on the defensive line with flashes of impressive fluidity and coordination skills for a big man. He played all over the defense line in college, lining up both outside at DE and inside at DT. Hankins rarely left the field and his coaches talk positively about his football character, but he often looked fatigued and worn down throughout games, meaning his snaps (and weight) will need to be monitored at the next level. Hankins has a rare combination of size, strength and foot quickness for a defensive lineman to be a force against both the run and the pass. Although he only looks half-speed at times when his tank isn’t full, Hankins can tear through blocks like paper –- a potential top-12 pick with the versatility to line up as a traditional 3-technique DT in a four-man front or an effective two-gapping 0-technique NT for a 3-4 defense.

[smitty46953]

He is a rather large human being ... :cool:

Bout my size actually, where do i sign ??? :cool:

[Puck]

But who are the foundational players? Are those guys coming in the draft?

Spence is going to be good... so is Simon

[VeveJones007]

Colts are hosting Giants NT Hankins.

[omahacolt]

Spence is going to be good... so is Simon

We will see. I like spence and who knows on Simon

[Spike]

Colts are hosting Giants NT Hankins.

Looks like Hankins left Indy without a deal.

http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2017/04/12/hankins-colts-not-looking-likely/100385888/

[YDFL Commish]

Looks like Hankins left Indy without a deal.

http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2017/04/12/hankins-colts-not-looking-likely/100385888/

If he's looking for Damon Harrison money (which I've read he is), then he's crazy and it was a wasted trip.

[natagu23]

If he's looking for Damon Harrison money (which I've read he is), then he's crazy and it was a wasted trip.

f**k that guy.

[FatDT]

Hankins ' agent is apparently a complete clown and not really taken seriously anymore because of his consistently stupid-high demands for his clients. Hankins should fire the guy, no reason to be jobless so deep into free agency.

[sherck]

Hankins ' agent is apparently a complete clown and not really taken seriously anymore because of his consistently stupid-high demands for his clients. Hankins should fire the guy, no reason to be jobless so deep into free agency.
Report has the Giants offer at 4-year, $28m or $7.000m a year.

If he wants more than that, then he is crazy. While is a good and young player, he is not a game wreaker.

Only 12 DTs have multi-year contracts that average over $7.000m a year:

$19.062m = Ndamukong Suh, MIA
$17.100m = Fletcher Cox, PHI
$16.095m = Marcell Dareus, BUF
$15.966m = Gerald McCoy, TB
$14.250m = Malik Jackson, JAX
$11.083m = Michael Brockers, LAR (probably going to a 3-4 NT)
$10.885m = Geno Atkins, CIN
$10.500m = Brandon Williams, BAL (3-4 NT)
$10.250m = Corey Liuget, LAC
$09.250m = Damon Harrison, NYG
$09.000m = Tyrone Crawford, DAL
$07.433m = Kyle Williams, BUF

So, one true 3-4 NT on that list and one guy whom as signed as a 4-3 1-gap NT but is probably transitioning to a 2-gap 0-tech 3-4 NT with their defensive change.

Hankins is not now a 0-tech, 2-gap 3-4 NT. He could turn into one but he has been a 1-gap 4-3 NT for his NFL career thus far. To think that he needs to get paid as the 2nd or 3rd highest paid 3-4 NT in the league.....

I don't mind paying the $7m per year in cap space for a difference maker at the position. Brandon Williams was a difference maker at the position; Hankins may be as well but we don't know that for sure.

Anyway, water under the bridge but it appears that he is way over valuing his worth and will probably end up getting bit because of it.

Cheers,

[Brylok]

Hankins supposedly signed. 3 years $30M. An expensive risk but immediate improvement.

[smitty46953]

Just heard Dakich announce it. Pretty salty

Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

[Puck]

Spend it!!! We need a SB soon!

[Brylok]

Just heard Dakich announce it. Pretty salty

Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk
Dakich is always salty about something. That's one of the reasons I don't listen to him.

[YDFL Commish]

I wonder if this is the difference maker move that Omaha was looking for?

[Wyatt]

I wonder if this is the difference maker move that Omaha was looking for?

He's not white, so that's a start

[smitty46953]

Dakich is always salty about something. That's one of the reasons I don't listen to him.
I meant the price was salty... I like Dakich, funny stuff[emoji41]


Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

[Coltsalr]

I wonder if this is the difference maker move that Omaha was looking for?

He wasn't signed by Grigson, so I'm sure Omaha hates it.

[indycolts2]

I meant the price was salty... I like Dakich, funny stuff[emoji41]


Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

Just started listening to Dakich podcast.....helps me through some of my drives but tough to listen to sometimes. Better than Indy Draft podcast though.

[sherck]

CB Jason McCourty cut. Another vet CB that would help ease a rookie CB in during the early part of the season.

A few to choose from.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[smitty46953]

Rather have Johnathan Hankins DT than Poe along with Zack Brown LB, Kevin Minter LB, & Darius Butler S/CB back ... Do something Grigs (Anyone remember that line?) ... :cool:

Looks like got 2 of my 4, wish we had added Brown too ... :cool:

[omahacolt]

I wonder if this is the difference maker move that Omaha was looking for?

Not exactly but it should work.

[Brylok]

Not exactly but it should work.
Omaha has been appeased! I wonder if Ballard is done yet?

[Wyatt]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9T6PIJVwAAtCFG.jpg

[sherck]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9T6PIJVwAAtCFG.jpg
Backup LG is Good, Haeg or Schewenke whoever loses the starting RG battle just like at RG.

Ridgeway is not a 5-tech; he does not have the height. The D-line depth should be:
NT = Hankins, Woods, Parry
DT (3-tech) = Anderson. Ridgeway, McGill
DE (5-tech) = Langford, Hunt, Sokoli

Althought Anderson has the size to play either DT or DE and Parry has the quickness to play eithet NT or DT.

Swoope is TE2 from dicussions. A rookie will start at TE3.

Same with RB. Turbin is RB2 with a rookie starting at RB3...even if it is Mixon.

Still some glaring holes at CB.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Coltsalr]

According to the New York Post's Brian Costello, a fourth-round pick is "about as much" the Jets can hope for in exchange for DE Sheldon Richardson.

We have three 4th rounders. DO IT BALLARD! PULL THE TRIGGER!

[sherck]

According to the New York Post's Brian Costello, a fourth-round pick is "about as much" the Jets can hope for in exchange for DE Sheldon Richardson.

We have three 4th rounders. DO IT BALLARD! PULL THE TRIGGER!
The issue is not the 4th rounder.

The issue is the $8.069m cap hit for the 5th year option for 2017 and then the need to re-sign him to a vet contract in 2018.

However, a D-line of:

NT = Hankins, Woods, Parry
DT(3-tech) = Richardson, Ridgeway, McGill
DE(5-tech) = Langford, Anderson, Hunt

looks pretty dang good.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Coltsalr]

The issue is not the 4th rounder.

The issue is the $8.069m cap hit for the 5th year option for 2017 and then the need to re-sign him to a vet contract in 2018.

However, a D-line of:

NT = Hankins, Woods, Parry
DT(3-tech) = Richardson, Ridgeway, McGill
DE(5-tech) = Langford, Anderson, Hunt

looks pretty dang good.

Cheers,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Would dedicating $8.069 in cap space hamstring us for making moves this season?

[Butter]

Would dedicating $8.069 in cap space hamstring us for making moves this season?

Probably not, but why throw away a 4th rounder unless you are sure you want to pay him a huge contract next season?

[VeveJones007]

Probably not, but why throw away a 4th rounder unless you are sure you want to pay him a huge contract next season?

Furthermore, why not draft someone in the 4th and just sign Richardson next year if you really want him? It's not like he would put this team over the top in 2017.

[Butter]

Furthermore, why not draft someone in the 4th and just sign Richardson next year if you really want him? It's not like he would put this team over the top in 2017.

That is certainly an option, but to be fair if you trade for him you have the franchise tag option and weapon in negotiations for the next contract. I am not convinced that would be the way to go by any means, but it is there.

[Coltsalr]

You also get a years' worth of evaluation time if you trade for him in a walk year.

That, plus, if they manage to kill the opening 2 rounds of the draft (like, if they get Reuben Foster and Tim Williams in the first 2 rounds, which is NOT out of the realm of possibility) and they were plug/play as they're expected to be and had Sheldon Richardson, this team is easily better than the 2014 team that went to the AFCCG.

Just sayin.

[CanuckColt]

Probably not, but why throw away a 4th rounder unless you are sure you want to pay him a huge contract next season?
It is probably a great deal to trade a 4th rounder for Richardson. 4th rounders have very low success rates...of 468 players taken in round 4 since 1999, 44 have started for 3 seasons or more, 20 have started for 5 seasons or more, 2 have started for 7 seasons or more.
The problem is doing a reasonable new contract and having the strong coaching and support to manage the guy...Pagano does not have the right stuff.
But Richardson is still only 26 (until Nov.29) and has a lot of football talent.
It is worth having a look-see.

[Wyatt]

@zkeefer
As expected, Colts TE Erik Swoope + WR Quan Bray signed their exclusive rights F.A. tenders. Swoope a big part of the offense moving forward

[DrSpaceman]

Not sure about Sheldon Richardson, mainly due to the salary. I don't think he is worth $8 million a year or whatever his contract is now.

[DrSpaceman]

Short with the Panthers was signed to a 5 year $80 million deal.

I know its different positions, but still makes Hankins seem like a bargain

[omahacolt]

Short with the Panthers was signed to a 5 year $80 million deal.

I know its different positions, but still makes Hankins seem like a bargain

he is better than hankins

[DrSpaceman]

he is better than hankins


He is $6 million a year better than Hankins?

Panthers D last year was not great after they decided to let their #1 corner leave

[Dam8610]

He is $6 million a year better than Hankins?

Panthers D last year was not great after they decided to let their #1 corner leave

He's certainly not $50 million over the life of each contact better, and I like Short.

[Wyatt]

@RobDemovsky
Former VCU basketball player Mo Alie-Cox is signing with the Colts, per a source.

[Wyatt]

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2015/03/18/ncaa-tournament-vcu-basketabll-mo-alie-cox-nfl/24990861/

A little more on our new TE

[Chromeburn]

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2015/03/18/ncaa-tournament-vcu-basketabll-mo-alie-cox-nfl/24990861/

A little more on our new TE

I'm fine with the signing. However, they always use Gates as an example of a b-ball player turned football player. What they always forget to say also is that he put in many, many, many hours of work to become the player he was. It wasn't like he just said "I want to play football" and just transitioned. He had to work his ass off.

[Wyatt]

@pfrumors
Colts Sign LB Jon Bostic https://www.profootballrumors.com/2017/04/colts-sign-lb-jon-bostic …

[Puck]

Raiders release Dan Williams

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2017/04/raiders-release-dan-williams

[Wyatt]

@RobDemovsky
Former VCU basketball player Mo Alie-Cox is signing with the Colts, per a source.

We will be lucky if he can develop into 1/2 of the football player that Gronk is, but just for comparison sakes

Mo Alie Cox
6' 7" - 250lbs
4.75 40 yd

Rob Gronkowski
6' 6" - 258lbs
4.68 40 yd

Eric Swoope
6' 5" - 257lbs
4.76 40 yd

[Wyatt]

@gmbremer 1m1 minute ago
Mo Alie-Cox chose #Colts in part because of "family" atmosphere. Had lunch with Luck, Swoope, Doyle. Pagano reminds him of Shaka Smart.

@HolderStephen 3m3 minutes ago
#Colts signee Mo Alie-Cox is on a conference call. Says Tampa Bay, San Diego, Seattle were among those who made offers.

[VeveJones007]

@gmbremer 1m1 minute ago
Mo Alie-Cox chose #Colts in part because of "family" atmosphere. Had lunch with Luck, Swoope, Doyle. Pagano reminds him of Shaka Smart.

@HolderStephen 3m3 minutes ago
#Colts signee Mo Alie-Cox is on a conference call. Says Tampa Bay, San Diego, Seattle were among those who made offers.

Honestly, that's pretty amazing that Luck would have lunch to help recruit what amounts to a walk-on player.

[Chromeburn]

We will be lucky if he can develop into 1/2 of the football player that Gronk is, but just for comparison sakes

Mo Alie Cox
6' 7" - 250lbs
4.75 40 yd

Rob Gronkowski
6' 6" - 258lbs
4.68 40 yd

Eric Swoope
6' 5" - 257lbs
4.76 40 yd

What makes Gronk so scary is that damn YAC. Once he gets going he is like a freight train going through the secondary. It's not surprising Pagano is collecting big secondary players.

[HoosierinFL]

Don't forget Marcus Pollard!

[Wyatt]

thoughts on newly released Jaye Howard anyone?

[smitty46953]

thoughts on newly released Jaye Howard anyone?

Ballard should know if worth a flyer being from KC, I don't know much about him ... :cool:

[smitty46953]

Honestly, that's pretty amazing that Luck would have lunch to help recruit what amounts to a walk-on player.

He was hungry and got offered a free lunch ? :cool:

[Wyatt]

Ballard should know if worth a flyer being from KC, I don't know much about him ... :cool:

I've heard speculation that maybe his injury was cause for concern, otherwise that he'd be a great fit for us

[sherck]

I've heard speculation that maybe his injury was cause for concern, otherwise that he'd be a great fit for us
I agree. I read something somewhere (so many....) where they were concerned about his response to rehab and that he was not 100% back.

Our DE depth looks like:

Langford: If he can return to 2015 form, then he is a quality starter.

Hunt: I am really intrigued by his switch from a 1-gap 4-3 DE (his pass rush was lacking) to a 2-gap 3-4 DE where his praised run stopping skills will be emphasized. I think he could shine.

Sokili: Freakish strong and massive but underwhelming football player.

Anderson: Has the height and length to play DE if he were not the first choice to play DT in front of Ridgeway.

If healthy, Howard would challenge Langford for play time. All would be improved. However, the question is if he is healthy or not.

Cheers,

[FatDT]

Seems like a talented and versatile player for the DL. But hip injuries dont' always heal right. I doubt the Chiefs would release him if he had a good chance of returning to the way he played in 2015.

[smitty46953]

Following the drafting of Miami TE David Njoku the Browns cut TE Gary Barnidge ... Any interest here ? :cool:

[GoBigBlue88]

I'm so glad this team signed Hankins so they don't have to waste a draft pick on a NT.

[VeveJones007]

I'm so glad this team signed Hankins so they don't have to waste a draft pick on a NT.

Still, I'm not opposed to using a later round pick on a NT. Hankins can provide some value at 3-tech as well.

[omahacolt]

I'm so glad this team signed Hankins so they don't have to waste a draft pick on a NT.

i agree

i read there weren't very many good prospects at nt

[smitty46953]

I'm so glad this team signed Hankins so they don't have to waste a draft pick on a NT.

Me too, I actually am one who wanted Hankins over Poe. Recall watching him at Ohio State and thought he be a good one... :cool:

[Coltsalr]

Still, I'm not opposed to using a later round pick on a NT. Hankins can provide some value at 3-tech as well.

I really like DJ Jones as a potential rotational NT:

OVERVIEW
D.J. (David, Junior) Jones is a short, stout, and athletic nose tackle who excelled for the Rebels the past two seasons but didn't earn all-conference honors from SEC coaches or media. The South Carolina native was a top-five junior college recruit nationally after starring at East Mississippi Junior College (21.5 tackles for loss, 12 sacks in two years), which won two national championships while he was here. Jones played in every game in 2015, starting three, making 40 tackles, 5.5 for loss, and four sacks. Rebels coaches started him all 12 games in his senior year (30 tackles, three TFL, two sacks).
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS Has a big bubble and plays with a wide base. Outrageous weight room strength with monster numbers in clean, bench, and squat. Plays low and fires upward strikes to elevate the blocker's center of gravity. Has the play strength to rip through an edge once he gets to it. Has quick hands and is nice with the swim move. Has necessary play traits to be an effective rusher in the twist game. Rare reactive athleticism and short-area lateral quickness for an interior player. Extended tackle radius allows him to close out running lanes away from his gap. Keeps hounding runners down the field for the tackle. Instinctive and quickly sniffs out screen passes. Very rarely on ground.
WEAKNESSES Has a stocky frame with short arms and lacks the length teams like. Lack of size could be an issue against NFL double teams. Motor gets him too juiced at times. Needs to gather himself to prevent running past his target. Was unable to overpower strong guards in man-to-man contest. Productivity fell way off over the second half of the season. Despite his impressive athleticism, lacked impact tackle production.
DRAFT PROJECTION Round 4-5
SOURCES TELL US "Go back and watch his tape from early in the season and then from late in the season and you will see a different player. At least that is what I thought. I just thought he looked like he kind of ran out of gas later in the year. He moves around like a fullback but he didn't make that many plays. That worries you as a coach." - SEC offensive coach
NFL COMPARISON Grady Jarrett
BOTTOM LINE Jones has a freaky combination of power and athleticism that isn't seen all that often. While his playing style is reminiscent of Grady Jarrett's, keep in mind that he's a bigger player. Despite his impressive play attributes, Jones failed to generate the production that his flashes on tape would indicate he's capable of. If a coach can unlock more consistency, Jones has a chance to flourish as a one-gapping nose with three-down ability.
-Lance Zierlein

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2017/profiles/d.j.-jones?id=2558265

Name: D.J. Jones

School: Mississippi

Position fit: Defensive tackle

Stats to know: 18 run stops in 2015 and 13 run stops in 2016.

What he does best:

Wins inside with lateral agility to get around blockers in a hurry.
Highly effective on stunts and has the range to stunt more than one gap over.
Stays after plays and will make impressive tackles in pursuit for a big man.
Effective swim move to routinely get around guards and centers.
Good instincts to recognize he is being let upfield on screens.
Plays with good low pad level and can really get under a blocker’s pads.
Uses his peripheral vision to avoid blocks while finding the ball on misdirection plays.
Agility and balance to avoid cut blocks and stay in the play.
Can use his natural leverage advantage to win quickly in the engagement.
Has the quickness to play one-gap techniques or the shedding ability to play two-gaps.
Graded positively as a pass-rusher and a run-defender for two-straight seasons.
Biggest concern:

Pass-rush wasn’t consistent and came in spurts during the season.
Overall grades dipped significantly after Week 1 game against Florida State.
Has only played 47 percent of defensive snaps each of the last two seasons.
Needs more pass-rush moves other than his effective swim move.
Only two sacks, one hit and six hurries on 208 pass-rush snaps in 2016.
Player comparison: Vernon Butler, Carolina Panthers

Jones’s build and foot quickness and ability to stunt and generate pass-rush pressure is similar to a shorter Butler. Jones won’t be drafted as highly as Butler was selected by the Panthers but he can provide rotational snaps with a similar style of play.

Bottom line: Jones plays with a naturally low pad level and when combined with his height gives him a natural leverage advantage over taller offensive linemen. Jones can play rotational snaps on the interior of defensive line and if he can generate a more consistent pass-rush could possibly push for a starting role down the line. Jones is worth investing a Day 3 pick in the draft.

https://www.profootballfocus.com/draft-pff-scouting-report-d-j-jones-di-ole-miss/

[Wyatt]

@RapSheet
The #49ers have released RB Mike Davis, source said. He was the subject of trade talks during the draft, so he'll draw real interest.



I believe Indy showed some interest in him in the past...

[Wyatt]

Colts just signed DE Josh Boyd former 5th round pick from Green Bay....played 3 seasons, starting 4 games in 2014

[omahacolt]

Colts just signed DE Josh Boyd former 5th round pick from Green Bay....played 3 seasons, starting 4 games in 2014

didn't play at all last year, right?

he will be cut

[Brylok]

didn't play at all last year, right?

he will be cut
Competition, dude. He might get cut but he'll at least get a chance to compete. Iron sharpens man.

[FatDT]

Has a DL named Josh ever succeeded?

[smitty46953]

Cards cut RB Chris Johnson :cool:

[smitty46953]

Browns cut QB Brock Osweiler :cool:

[smitty46953]

Ravens cut C Jeremy Zuttah

[YDFL Commish]

Ravens cut C Jeremy Zuttah

Zuttah is somebody I would definitely take a look at.

[smitty46953]

Broncos cut Safety TJ Ward

Ian Rapoport‏Verified account
@RapSheet
The #Broncos have informed three-time Pro Bowler and all-pro safety TJ Ward that he's been released, source said.

[smitty46953]

Bengals cut OT Eric Winston :cool:


Tom Pelissero‏Verified account
@TomPelissero

The #Bengals have released veteran OL and NFLPA president Eric Winston, source said.

[smitty46953]

Broncos cut Safety TJ Ward

Ian Rapoport‏Verified account
@RapSheet
The #Broncos have informed three-time Pro Bowler and all-pro safety TJ Ward that he's been released, source said.

I would take a look :cool:

[smitty46953]

Adam Schefter‏Verified account @AdamSchefter · 1m1 minute ago

Redskins told RB Matt Jones they are waiving him, per source.

:cool:

[smitty46953]

Field Yates‏Verified account @FieldYates · 3m3 minutes ago

Source: the Cowboys are releasing veteran safety Robert Blanton.

:cool:

[smitty46953]

49ers released WR Jeremy Kerley.

[smitty46953]

Seahawks released DT Ahtyba Rubin.

[smitty46953]

In former Colts / Grigson picks news..... TENN just cut D'joun Smith..... :eek:

[smitty46953]

Tom Pelissero‏Verified account @TomPelissero · 55s56 seconds ago

The #Vikings have released starting guard Alex Boone, sources tell @RapSheet and me.

:cool:

[smitty46953]

Ian Rapoport‏Verified account
@RapSheet

The #Bears have waived RB Jeremy Langford,

:cool:

[Dam8610]

Seahawks released DT Ahtyba Rubin.

Maybe kick the tires?