Are any worth keeping?

[albany ed]

Here's a list of potential free agents for the Colts. Not seeing very many worth re-signing. I'd be curious what the rest of you feel.

Ryan Kelly, center, 31, $15.36 million

Mo Alie-Cox, tight end, 31, $5.92 million

E.J. Speed, linebacker, 29, $5.46 million

Ashton Dulin, wide receiver, 27, $3.68 million

Dayo Odeyingbo, edge rusher, 25, $1.97 million

Kylen Granson, tight end, 26, $3.3 million

Julian Blackmon, safety, 26, $3.89 million

Cameron McGrone, linebacker, 24, $985,000

Sam Ehlinger, quarterback, 26, $1.09 million

Will Fries, offensive line, 26, $3.24 million

Rigoberto Sanchez, punter, 30, $2.5 million

Joe Flacco, quarterback, 39, $4.5 million

Grant Stuard, linebacker, 26, $1.06 million

Wesley French, offensive lineman, 28, $988,344

Chris Lammons, cornerback, 28, $1.06 million

Taven Bryan, defensive tackle, 28, $2.25 million

Tyler Goodson, running back, 24, $915,000

Danny Pinter, offensive lineman, 28, $1.22 million

Ronnie Harrison, safety, 27, $547,222

David Long, cornerback, 26, $656,667

Trey Sermon, running back, 25, $1,06 million

Juwann Winfree, wide receiver, 28, $570,000

Trevor Denbow, safety, 26, $985,000


Ryan Coll, offensive lineman, 23, $470,000

Segun Olubi, linebacker, 25, $915,000

[Dewey 5]

Here's a list of potential free agents for the Colts. Not seeing very many worth re-signing. I'd be curious what the rest of you feel.

Ryan Kelly, center, 31, $15.36 million

Mo Alie-Cox, tight end, 31, $5.92 million

E.J. Speed, linebacker, 29, $5.46 million

Ashton Dulin, wide receiver, 27, $3.68 million

Dayo Odeyingbo, edge rusher, 25, $1.97 million

Kylen Granson, tight end, 26, $3.3 million

Julian Blackmon, safety, 26, $3.89 million

Cameron McGrone, linebacker, 24, $985,000

Sam Ehlinger, quarterback, 26, $1.09 million

Will Fries, offensive line, 26, $3.24 million

Rigoberto Sanchez, punter, 30, $2.5 million

Joe Flacco, quarterback, 39, $4.5 million

Grant Stuard, linebacker, 26, $1.06 million

Wesley French, offensive lineman, 28, $988,344

Chris Lammons, cornerback, 28, $1.06 million

Taven Bryan, defensive tackle, 28, $2.25 million

Tyler Goodson, running back, 24, $915,000

Danny Pinter, offensive lineman, 28, $1.22 million

Ronnie Harrison, safety, 27, $547,222

David Long, cornerback, 26, $656,667

Trey Sermon, running back, 25, $1,06 million

Juwann Winfree, wide receiver, 28, $570,000

Trevor Denbow, safety, 26, $985,000


Ryan Coll, offensive lineman, 23, $470,000

Segun Olubi, linebacker, 25, $915,000

Maybe, Will Fries. The rest can go

[Mr. Session]

If there isn’t an immediate FA replacement idk why we wouldn’t resign Sanchez I guess that’s not an exceptionally difficult position to replace, though. .

If we can get Dayo for a year or two cheap, why not? Maybe a new DC gets something out of him.

I understand it’s a business but i’d like them to bring Fries back in the building

Dulin gives us a wide skill set so I think there’s still value there.

I think the rest are a wash, mostly.

[HoosierinFL]

From this list, these are the ones I think are worth keeping around


Ashton Dulin, wide receiver, 27, $3.68 million

Dayo Odeyingbo, edge rusher, 25, $1.97 million


Will Fries, offensive line, 26, $3.24 million

Rigoberto Sanchez, punter, 30, $2.5 million


Grant Stuard, linebacker, 26, $1.06 million

Wesley French, offensive lineman, 28, $988,344


Danny Pinter, offensive lineman, 28, $1.22 million

Ronnie Harrison, safety, 27, $547,222


Segun Olubi, linebacker, 25, $915,000

[Racehorse]

Here's a list of potential free agents for the Colts. Not seeing very many worth re-signing. I'd be curious what the rest of you feel.

Ryan Kelly, center, 31, $15.36 million

Mo Alie-Cox, tight end, 31, $5.92 million

E.J. Speed, linebacker, 29, $5.46 million

Ashton Dulin, wide receiver, 27, $3.68 million

Dayo Odeyingbo, edge rusher, 25, $1.97 million

Kylen Granson, tight end, 26, $3.3 million

Julian Blackmon, safety, 26, $3.89 million

Cameron McGrone, linebacker, 24, $985,000

Sam Ehlinger, quarterback, 26, $1.09 million

Will Fries, offensive line, 26, $3.24 million

Rigoberto Sanchez, punter, 30, $2.5 million

Joe Flacco, quarterback, 39, $4.5 million

Grant Stuard, linebacker, 26, $1.06 million

Wesley French, offensive lineman, 28, $988,344

Chris Lammons, cornerback, 28, $1.06 million

Taven Bryan, defensive tackle, 28, $2.25 million

Tyler Goodson, running back, 24, $915,000

Danny Pinter, offensive lineman, 28, $1.22 million

Ronnie Harrison, safety, 27, $547,222

David Long, cornerback, 26, $656,667

Trey Sermon, running back, 25, $1,06 million

Juwann Winfree, wide receiver, 28, $570,000

Trevor Denbow, safety, 26, $985,000


Ryan Coll, offensive lineman, 23, $470,000

Segun Olubi, linebacker, 25, $915,000

Dulin, and Stuard for STs. Dayo, because he will not command too much, and is a good rotational piece. Fries, because he was a top RG when healthy. Sanchez, because he is a good punter.

Kelly is going to retire, I think. The rest are very meh.

[Racehorse]

Dulin, and Stuard for STs. Dayo, because he will not command too much, and is a good rotational piece. Fries, because he was a top RG when healthy. Sanchez, because he is a good punter.

Kelly is going to retire, I think. The rest are very meh.

Maybe keep French, just for the memes

[IndyNorm]

Agree w/ Dulin and Stuard for STs and Sanchez as well.

If we can get Dayo back on a 1 year show me deal or 2 years for cheap then I would keep him as well to see if he can turn things around and get back to his 2023 form.

If not for the injury we probably would have had to let Fries walk, but b/c of it I think we can get him for a 1 year reasonable deal, which I think we should.

French and Goodson would be ok at their respective minimums.

Guessing Glow is not on the list b/c he's on the PS, but I would bring him back for the vet minimum if possible.

[albany ed]

Thoughts on Braden Smith?

if cut before June 1, cap hit is 3,000,000 after June 1 cap hit 16,750,000.

[HoosierinFL]

Thoughts on Braden Smith?

if cut before June 1, cap hit is 3,000,000 after June 1 cap hit 16,750,000.

He's gone downhill dramatically, and is not worth 16 mil. Lose him.

[ChoppedWood]

He's gone downhill dramatically, and is not worth 16 mil. Lose him.

Contract re-negotiated:
2025 salary= $29.7M
2026 salary= $32.9M
2027 salary= $48.5M
2028 salary= 105.3M

Signed,
Chris Ballard

We Like our Guys

[YDFL Commish]

I heard that the lead ground crew guy can really spin it. I say we keep him on a 6 year contract.

[ChoppedWood]

I heard that the lead ground crew guy can really spin it. I say we keep him on a 6 year contract.

6'6" 348 and threw for 2,257 in 8th grade. Was a team captain to boot. This is a LOCK!

[omahacolt]

Dulin, and Stuard for STs. Dayo, because he will not command too much, and is a good rotational piece. Fries, because he was a top RG when healthy. Sanchez, because he is a good punter.

Kelly is going to retire, I think. The rest are very meh.

this is my list as well

maybe keep Pinter if he is dirt cheap as a backup

wouldn't keep Kelly even if he doesn't retire

[omahacolt]

Thoughts on Braden Smith?

if cut before June 1, cap hit is 3,000,000 after June 1 cap hit 16,750,000.

really curious what kind of personal matter keeps a guy out 6 weeks. that seems unheard of

[ChoppedWood]

really curious what kind of personal matter keeps a guy out 6 weeks. that seems unheard of

My hunch says he told Chris Ballard he was a piece of shit and wouldn't play for him any longer.

Since then Ballard has been working on re-doing his contract to give him more guaranteed money next year.

[IndyNorm]

Thoughts on Braden Smith?

if cut before June 1, cap hit is 3,000,000 after June 1 cap hit 16,750,000.

Don't think the June 1 deadline is correct. At least per OTC which shows he's $3M in dead money and $16.75M savings whether he's released before or after June 1. But either way he hasn't been able to stay healthy, so unless he's willing to take a bit paycut it's time to move on. And w/ whatever he has going on off the field he may just hang it up anyway.

[IndyNorm]

really curious what kind of personal matter keeps a guy out 6 weeks. that seems unheard of

My guess is that an immediate family member(s) has some serious health problems going on.

[IndyNorm]

Something else to consider is both Raimann and Pierce are eligible for extensions. Guessing we'd want to at least get Raimann signed for long term.

[omahacolt]

My guess is that an immediate family member(s) has some serious health problems going on.

he isn't a fucking doctor

[IndyNorm]

he isn't a fucking doctor

Not sure what that has to do w/ anything related to my comment. Say his wife is terminally ill and he has to be home full time to take care of her and their kids. He can't be expected to be in the facility all day 5-6 days a week.

[Kray007]

really curious what kind of personal matter keeps a guy out 6 weeks. that seems unheard of

He’s no longer listed as out because of a personal matter. It’s now the non football illness list. I would hate to guess what’s going on with him, but it doesn’t seem like this is some sort of personal vacation with him. With any luck, the illness isn’t potentially terminal.

[Hoopsdoc]

I thought Goncalves was decent which makes the decision on Smith that much easier.

[Hoopsdoc]

As for the rest, Dulin, Stuard, Rigo, and Fries would be worth resigning. Maybe Dayo.

[Kray007]

Fries, no question. There are only so many premium draft picks, and I don’t want to use one on a position where I already have a solution.

Second, Ryan Kelly. I know he’s over 30, and you usually avoid those guys like the plague; but…. The line play is much more cohesive and effective when he’s on the field. With any luck, Tanor Bortolini develops, but the bottom line is that 2025 is a make or break season. If Anthony Richardson doesn’t make the leap, heads will roll, starting with the general manager and head coach. If I’m the GM, my highest priority is to give Anthony Richardson a clean pocket.

At 30 years old, EJ Speed is someone I bring back if the price is right, if for no other reason than not signing him would create a hole that would have to be filled. I don’t kid myself…Linebacker is a real need. We simply have to find someone who stands a glimmer of a chance of covering opposing Tight Ends and Running Backs. But to me, that’s a midterm issue, not something that sits on the front burner.

Dayo Odeyingbo is a clear maybe. I could be wrong, but I see potential, and I wonder if he’d be more effective in a different system, with a different defensive coordinator. Right now, the day after the season ended, Gus Bradley‘s status is up in the air. If Gus is gone, whoever replaces him might be able to better utilize Dayo.

Dulin and Stuard for their value on special teams.

[albany ed]

Fries, no question. There are only so many premium draft picks, and I don’t want to use one on a position where I already have a solution.

Second, Ryan Kelly. I know he’s over 30, and you usually avoid those guys like the plague; but…. The line play is much more cohesive and effective when he’s on the field. With any luck, Tanor Bortolini develops, but the bottom line is that 2025 is a make or break season. If Anthony Richardson doesn’t make the leap, heads will roll, starting with the general manager and head coach. If I’m the GM, my highest priority is to give Anthony Richardson a clean pocket.

At 30 years old, EJ Speed is someone I bring back if the price is right, if for no other reason than not signing him would create a hole that would have to be filled. I don’t kid myself…Linebacker is a real need. We simply have to find someone who stands a glimmer of a chance of covering opposing Tight Ends and Running Backs. But to me, that’s a midterm issue, not something that sits on the front burner.

Dayo Odeyingbo is a clear maybe. I could be wrong, but I see potential, and I wonder if he’d be more effective in a different system, with a different defensive coordinator. Right now, the day after the season ended, Gus Bradley‘s status is up in the air. If Gus is gone, whoever replaces him might be able to better utilize Dayo.

Dulin and Stuard for their value on special teams.

Just curious. Kelly is a free agent. What would be your offer/solution for keeping him?

[Kray007]

Just curious. Kelly is a free agent. What would be your offer/solution for keeping him?

4 year deal structured so that he can be cut after year 2 with little pain. $10 Million signing bonus with a minimum first year salary. First year cap hit around $4 Million. 2nd year cap hit $6 Million, 3rd year $8 Million, 4th year $12 Million.

To prettify it up and pad the value to make it look more lucrative, toss in a few workout bonuses, guarantee the first year and year 2 for injury, add a bonus for making the pro bowl, and a roster bonus in year 4.

In total, a partially guaranteed $40 Million over 4 years. In reality, 2 years $16 Million.

[omahacolt]

Fries, no question. There are only so many premium draft picks, and I don’t want to use one on a position where I already have a solution.

Second, Ryan Kelly. I know he’s over 30, and you usually avoid those guys like the plague; but…. The line play is much more cohesive and effective when he’s on the field. With any luck, Tanor Bortolini develops, but the bottom line is that 2025 is a make or break season. If Anthony Richardson doesn’t make the leap, heads will roll, starting with the general manager and head coach. If I’m the GM, my highest priority is to give Anthony Richardson a clean pocket.

At 30 years old, EJ Speed is someone I bring back if the price is right, if for no other reason than not signing him would create a hole that would have to be filled. I don’t kid myself…Linebacker is a real need. We simply have to find someone who stands a glimmer of a chance of covering opposing Tight Ends and Running Backs. But to me, that’s a midterm issue, not something that sits on the front burner.

Dayo Odeyingbo is a clear maybe. I could be wrong, but I see potential, and I wonder if he’d be more effective in a different system, with a different defensive coordinator. Right now, the day after the season ended, Gus Bradley‘s status is up in the air. If Gus is gone, whoever replaces him might be able to better utilize Dayo.

Dulin and Stuard for their value on special teams.
bringing back Kelly and speed is moronic.

especially speed. dude should have been cut weeks ago. he sucks

[ChoppedWood]

On MacAfee just now they had a bit on Payton's decision of picking Nix and their confidence in him. 3 GREAT statements stood out:

1- We don't want to pick linebackers that can't tackle
2- We don't want WR's that can't catch
3- We don't want a QB that isn't accurate. Accuracy is everything.

Then went on to talk about the huge # of passes they had him throw for them. Started talking about how EVERY short pass he threw, which are the passes that have to be accurate were on the correct shoulder and they knew they had the guy they wanted.

Imagine this same conversation with Ballard:
1- We don't really think tackling is the main trait in a linebacker. We like guys that are really focused on mic skills. If they can spit a good game, then they are gonna be good backers. We want guys with personality, guys that make a lot of noise about themselves. Self Promotion is a trait we really value in our guys!
2- WR's, catching is probably a bit overrated. We have a guy in mind, during the draft prep he told us he liked to check out chicks on IG as a priority, and who doesn't, and he also said he thought his catching skills were good and we believe him, so we're pretty sure he is our guy.
3- Well QB accuracy, that's something I think people USED to worry about. I don't think accuracy is something we are really gonna put a lot of value on in the QB analysis. We are looking for big guys with big arms and big holes that we will never be able to fill.

The current time is 1:00 PM ET
Gus Bradley remains the Colts DC

FUCK YOU JIM IRSAY!

[albany ed]

bringing back Kelly and speed is moronic.

especially speed. dude should have been cut weeks ago. he sucks

Ryan Kelly has been the Colts center for 9 years and in only 1 of those seasons has he played in every game. This past year he played in just under 60% of the games. He was a great center, but his body has taken a toll and I expect that if he doesn't retire, he won't play in even 50% of his games next season. I can't see bringing him back.

[Kray007]

bringing back Kelly and speed is moronic.

especially speed. dude should have been cut weeks ago. he sucks

I don’t see Speed as a long term answer, but I don’t want to spend much draft capital on the position…this year. If I sign him, it’s to a short term deal at a minimum number. I might feel differently if there was a lot of depth at LB.

As far as Kelly is concerned, bringing him back might be moronic, but I’m not foolish enough to depend on Tanor Bartolini making the leap, being ready to step up and play at a high level.

[Kray007]

Ryan Kelly has been the Colts center for 9 years and in only 1 of those seasons has he played in every game. This past year he played in just under 60% of the games. He was a great center, but his body has taken a toll and I expect that if he doesn't retire, he won't play in even 50% of his games next season. I can't see bringing him back.

I get that Kelly is on the downside of his career. But, if Braden Smith isn’t able to return, I think you need every ounce of continuity you can buy. Right now, it’s a coin flip whether Richardson develops. Replacing the entire right side of the OL is the last thing he needs.

[Kray007]

E

[Dewey 5]

On MacAfee just now they had a bit on Payton's decision of picking Nix and their confidence in him. 3 GREAT statements stood out:

1- We don't want to pick linebackers that can't tackle
2- We don't want WR's that can't catch
3- We don't want a QB that isn't accurate. Accuracy is everything.

Then went on to talk about the huge # of passes they had him throw for them. Started talking about how EVERY short pass he threw, which are the passes that have to be accurate were on the correct shoulder and they knew they had the guy they wanted.

Imagine this same conversation with Ballard:
1- We don't really think tackling is the main trait in a linebacker. We like guys that are really focused on mic skills. If they can spit a good game, then they are gonna be good backers. We want guys with personality, guys that make a lot of noise about themselves. Self Promotion is a trait we really value in our guys!
2- WR's, catching is probably a bit overrated. We have a guy in mind, during the draft prep he told us he liked to check out chicks on IG as a priority, and who doesn't, and he also said he thought his catching skills were good and we believe him, so we're pretty sure he is our guy.
3- Well QB accuracy, that's something I think people USED to worry about. I don't think accuracy is something we are really gonna put a lot of value on in the QB analysis. We are looking for big guys with big arms and big holes that we will never be able to fill.

The current time is 1:00 PM ET
Gus Bradley remains the Colts DC

FUCK YOU JIM IRSAY!

He’s not going anywhere. Colts grand plan is to run it all back.

[omahacolt]

I don’t see Speed as a long term answer, but I don’t want to spend much draft capital on the position…this year. If I sign him, it’s to a short term deal at a minimum number. I might feel differently if there was a lot of depth at LB.

As far as Kelly is concerned, bringing him back might be moronic, but I’m not foolish enough to depend on Tanor Bartolini making the leap, being ready to step up and play at a high level.

I understand what you are saying. its just what your saying is moronic and nobody should want to do what you are saying.


any lbers can replace speed. carlies is already here to do it. Kelly is old, hurt a lot and is marginally, if at all, a better player that bortolini

[YDFL Commish]

4 year deal structured so that he can be cut after year 2 with little pain. $10 Million signing bonus with a minimum first year salary. First year cap hit around $4 Million. 2nd year cap hit $6 Million, 3rd year $8 Million, 4th year $12 Million.

To prettify it up and pad the value to make it look more lucrative, toss in a few workout bonuses, guarantee the first year and year 2 for injury, add a bonus for making the pro bowl, and a roster bonus in year 4.

In total, a partially guaranteed $40 Million over 4 years. In reality, 2 years $16 Million.

I can see the reasoning for bringing Kelly back. But, the most I'm offering is a 2 year deal, which can essentially be 1 year deal.

But, I also consider moving him to RG, due to the Fries injury. My main reasoning for this is 2022, when Ballard banked on Pinter and Pryor to replace Glowinski and Castonzo. We absolutely cannot do that again.

[Kray007]

I understand what you are saying. its just what your saying is moronic and nobody should want to do what you are saying.


any lbers can replace speed. carlies is already here to do it. Kelly is old, hurt a lot and is marginally, if at all, a better player that bortolini

So, you’re saying we entrust a starting LB position to a player who missed half his rookie year to injury; a guy who, in the one full game he played, got a run D grade of 38?

As far as Kelly’s concerned, Bortolini might be the future, but the line simply performs better when he’s on the field.

[rm1369]

So, you’re saying we entrust a starting LB position to a player who missed half his rookie year to injury; a guy who, in the one full game he played, got a run D grade of 38?


For me the point is that accepting mediocrity just become someone is “our guy” is stupid and just breeds more mediocrity. That’s what Ballard keeps doing and what retaining Speed would be. Speed isn’t good enough, so why reward his play? His level of performance is easily replaceable. Replace him with someone who either has a chance to grow or someone who is on the down swing that brings an intangible that Speed clearly doesn’t - like leadership or professionalism. The culture in that locker room sucks. They need to quit rewarding mediocrity for the sake of continuity.

[ChoppedWood]

For me the point is that accepting mediocrity just become someone is “our guy” is stupid and just breeds more mediocrity. That’s what Ballard keeps doing and what retaining Speed would be. Speed isn’t good enough, so why reward his play? His level of performance is easily replaceable. Replace him with someone who either has a chance to grow or someone who is on the down swing that brings an intangible that Speed clearly doesn’t - like leadership or professionalism. The culture in that locker room sucks. They need to quit rewarding mediocrity for the sake of continuity.

Yep. The holdover for the sake of holdover until the next draft / FA to replace, has led us to this very shitty landing spot. The time has come to shed all the chafe in that motherfucker, and there is a LOT of it!

[YDFL Commish]

For me the point is that accepting mediocrity just become someone is “our guy” is stupid and just breeds more mediocrity. That’s what Ballard keeps doing and what retaining Speed would be. Speed isn’t good enough, so why reward his play? His level of performance is easily replaceable. Replace him with someone who either has a chance to grow or someone who is on the down swing that brings an intangible that Speed clearly doesn’t - like leadership or professionalism. The culture in that locker room sucks. They need to quit rewarding mediocrity for the sake of continuity.

Fuck, let both LB's go. Franklin is a cancer. WTF is this stupid shit with 8 captains anyway?

[Discflinger]

I liked Speed when he first got called up from st. I think he just got complacent.

[Kray007]

For me the point is that accepting mediocrity just become someone is “our guy” is stupid and just breeds more mediocrity. That’s what Ballard keeps doing and what retaining Speed would be. Speed isn’t good enough, so why reward his play? His level of performance is easily replaceable. Replace him with someone who either has a chance to grow or someone who is on the down swing that brings an intangible that Speed clearly doesn’t - like leadership or professionalism. The culture in that locker room sucks. They need to quit rewarding mediocrity for the sake of continuity.

I’m not suggesting, for a moment, that you reward him with a fat, long term deal. I recognize that he isn’t a strength, that he’ll eventually have to be replaced. But, I have other, more immediate, priorities I want to address before I get around to LB. Sign him to a chump change contract, draft a guy in the 4th round, and let him, Carlies, and the draft choice compete for the starting position in camp.

[Mr. Session]

I’m not suggesting, for a moment, that you reward him with a fat, long term deal. I recognize that he isn’t a strength, that he’ll eventually have to be replaced. But, I have other, more immediate, priorities I want to address before I get around to LB. Sign him to a chump change contract, draft a guy in the 4th round, and let him, Carlies, and the draft choice compete for the starting position in camp.

I'm in the same place with Franklin.

I wanna see some legit competition at LB. Fanklin and Speed would both probably be very good special teams guys for us, where they belong.

[Kray007]

I can see the reasoning for bringing Kelly back. But, the most I'm offering is a 2 year deal, which can essentially be 1 year deal.

But, I also consider moving him to RG, due to the Fries injury. My main reasoning for this is 2022, when Ballard banked on Pinter and Pryor to replace Glowinski and Castonzo. We absolutely cannot do that again.

If I were inside the organization and had a better handle on what’s going on with Braden Smith, I’d be a lot more comfortable with charting a course forward on the line.

To me, one of the highest priorities is to create a safe place for Anthony Richardson to ply his wares. It’s going to be hard enough for him to develop without turning the pocket into a 21st century version of Fort Apache The Bronx. To that end, I value certainty. I like a veteran with the smarts and experience of Kelly directing the line when Houston starts crowding the box with 8 guys, trying to sow pre snap confusion.

Clearly, Ryan is not a long term solution, and I wouldn’t sign him to any contract that locks him in for 4 or 5 years. With any luck, Bortolini is the long term solution, but signing Kelly gives us insurance in case he’s not.

[Kray007]

I'm in the same place with Franklin.

I wanna see some legit competition at LB. Fanklin and Speed would both probably be very good special teams guys for us, where they belong.

Part of the frustration is Franklin’s utter inconsistency. At his best, he plays at a pro bowl level. But, there are stretches/games when he seems to be a step away from where he ought to be if he’s going to make an impact. No idea how the new D Coordinator is going to see things, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see new faces at the position before too very long.

[rm1369]

I’m not suggesting, for a moment, that you reward him with a fat, long term deal. I recognize that he isn’t a strength, that he’ll eventually have to be replaced. But, I have other, more immediate, priorities I want to address before I get around to LB. Sign him to a chump change contract, draft a guy in the 4th round, and let him, Carlies, and the draft choice compete for the starting position in camp.

IMO the culture of the franchise is likely a bigger issue currently than even the talent level. To change the culture you are going to have to change a decent amount of the players, especially considering the top two supposed leaders of the team are returning (GM and HC). And you have to start showing some accountability. Resigning him even to a chump change contract isn’t accountability. That makes it an easy call to replace Speed, I’m not worried about a slight drop in performance at the position if it means helping change the culture.

[ChaosTheory]

Part of the frustration is Franklin’s utter inconsistency. At his best, he plays at a pro bowl level. But, there are stretches/games when he seems to be a step away from where he ought to be if he’s going to make an impact. No idea how the new D Coordinator is going to see things, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see new faces at the position before too very long.

Franklin was never a dynamic LB. He's not a coverage guy, he's not a turnover guy. At his best, he translated that ST mindset and was an absolute missile to the ball carrier. He had moments, even games, like that this year, but inconsistent for sure. Personality shit tips the scales and I'm ok dumping him, I just haven't looked at the contract situation to know if that's realistic.

Also, unless there is an issue with his leg recovery, Will Fries has to come back. That dude worked himself into a premier guard and there was a big drop-off when he went down.

Kelly is better than Bortolini, but the gap is mainly mental and is closer than Fries-Tucker or even Fries-Glowinski.

[IndyNorm]

On Franklin - it sure seems like he's the biggest problem w/ the team culture, at least player wise. If this is correct then we really need to release him. Per OTC he'll count $9.5M in dead money which is ($2M) in pressure towards the cap, which isn't too terrible and will be worth it to get the locker room turned around.

On Speed - seems like he's possibly the 2nd biggest problem as he's in lock, stock w/ Franklin. The question is whether or not he's just going along w/ Franklin and his attitude will improve if we make an example of his leader, or if he'll continue to be a douche. If those in the know think it's the latter then just let him go. If it's the former then maybe re-sign him on the cheap, but don't just hand him a starting job. Have some real competition for this spot.

On Kelly - I can see both sides. The OL plays better with him, but he's hurt like half the time now. IMO if he's willing to take a decent pay cut and sign a 1-2 year deal then it's probably worth keeping him around.

On Fries - Agree that we should re-sign him as long as it doesn't look like his injury is going to be a long term issue. I made the comment earlier, but w/ his injury we could maybe sign him to a 1 year show it deal or 2 year reasonable contract.

[Hoopsdoc]

Franklin was never a dynamic LB. He's not a coverage guy, he's not a turnover guy. At his best, he translated that ST mindset and was an absolute missile to the ball carrier. He had moments, even games, like that this year, but inconsistent for sure. Personality shit tips the scales and I'm ok dumping him, I just haven't looked at the contract situation to know if that's realistic.

Also, unless there is an issue with his leg recovery, Will Fries has to come back. That dude worked himself into a premier guard and there was a big drop-off when he went down.

Kelly is better than Bortolini, but the gap is mainly mental and is closer than Fries-Tucker or even Fries-Glowinski.

On Fries I agree 100 percent. As long as the knee injury wasn’t career ending, bring the guy back.

It shouldn’t cost to much, assuming other teams don’t covet him.

[1965southpaw]

[QUOTE=IndyNorm;318173]On Franklin - it sure seems like he's the biggest problem w/ the team culture, at least player wise. If this is correct then we really need to release him. Per OTC he'll count $9.5M in dead money which is ($2M) in pressure towards the cap, which isn't too terrible and will be worth it to get the locker room turned around


Franklin posted this apology to the fans an hour ago. Call me cynical but it doesn’t convince me.

https://x.com/ziggysmalls_/status/1876734908397142504?s=61&t=l0djuKhnHB0f4Z_lhj_lFw

[Colts And Orioles]

Call me cynical.





o


Cynical.

o

[Racehorse]

I just saw a sort of apology from Franklin on Facebook. Maybe he has learned a thing or two.

[Racehorse]

[QUOTE=IndyNorm;318173]On Franklin - it sure seems like he's the biggest problem w/ the team culture, at least player wise. If this is correct then we really need to release him. Per OTC he'll count $9.5M in dead money which is ($2M) in pressure towards the cap, which isn't too terrible and will be worth it to get the locker room turned around


Franklin posted this apology to the fans an hour ago. Call me cynical but it doesn’t convince me.

https://x.com/ziggysmalls_/status/1876734908397142504?s=61&t=l0djuKhnHB0f4Z_lhj_lFw

Looks like you beat me to it.

[ChaosTheory]

On Fries I agree 100 percent. As long as the knee injury wasn’t career ending, bring the guy back.

It shouldn’t cost to much, assuming other teams don’t covet him.

Luckily it wasn't his knee... he just snapped his fucking leg in half.

I think that's better? At least less complex. His bone could be healed by now (maybe another month) and then it's a matter of building back strength and reversing atrophy.

[ukcolt]

I am also not convinced Ashton Dulin warrants the money he is being paid, he is a special teams stud, but is the 4th or 5th receiver and shouldn't be paid more than veteran minimum for that role. I do like him as a player, and don't really want to lose him, but that figure is just too high for what he does.

Denbow, McGrone, Stuard, Lammons, are all just bodies that are easily replaced by low end draft picks or UDFA year after year. It is not as if our special teams was anything special to begin with!

[Kray007]

Ultimately, at Linebacker, Franklin and Speed’s fate rests in the hands of Lou Anarumo. He’s got to decide if their skills fit his system; whether or not the weird 4-2-5 scheme favored by Bradley didn’t play to their strengths. To be honest, I didn’t pay enough attention to the Bengal’s D to reach many conclusions about how Speed fits in. But, my gut tells me that they’re gonna want/need to add someone who excels in coverage, and Speed is described as serviceable at best.

The good news is that there are a few prospective free agent Linebackers out there who can cover. The problem is that not many of them are the kind of big names that a disaffected fan base will stand up and applaud Ballard for signing.

[YDFL Commish]

Ultimately, at Linebacker, Franklin and Speed’s fate rests in the hands of Lou Anarumo. He’s got to decide if their skills fit his system; whether or not the weird 4-2-5 scheme favored by Bradley didn’t play to their strengths. To be honest, I didn’t pay enough attention to the Bengal’s D to reach many conclusions about how Speed fits in. But, my gut tells me that they’re gonna want/need to add someone who excels in coverage, and Speed is described as serviceable at best.

The good news is that there are a few prospective free agent Linebackers out there who can cover. The problem is that none of them are the kind of big names that a disaffected fan base will stand up and applaud Ballard for signing.

Speed is a FA and won't be back. If Ballard brings him back he should be fired on the spot.

[Racehorse]

Speed is a FA and won't be back. If Ballard brings him back he should be fired on the spot.

Letting him walk would send a strong message to Franklin.

[Kray007]

Speed is a FA and won't be back. If Ballard brings him back he should be fired on the spot.

Personally, if I’m GM, my attitude is simple. If Anarumo and Steichen want him, I sign him…even if I have doubts.

[YDFL Commish]

Personally, if I’m GM, my attitude is simple. If Anarumo and Steichen want him, I sign him…even if I have doubts.

It took me 5 minutes and I did Ballard's for him.

164

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

really curious what kind of personal matter keeps a guy out 6 weeks. that seems unheard of


Braden has now shared that he was suffering from a mental health issue last season.

It appears he went to an out-of-state treatment facility to help deal with it.


https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/braden-smith-dealt-with-severe-ocd-in-2024

In December, the Colts placed right tackle Braden Smith on the non-football illness list. There was no mention of the nature of the illness.

Smith has now gone public with his condition.

Joel A. Erickson of the Indianapolis Star has the story. Smith suffered from obsessive-compulsive disorder, which manifested itself in the form of religious scrupulosity.

After playing 761 snaps in 12 games last season, Smith and his wife decided that he needed professional care.

“I was physically present, but I was nowhere to be found,” Smith told Erickson. “I did not care about playing football. I didn’t care about hanging out with my family, with my wife, with my newborn son. . . . I [felt like I] was a month away from putting a bullet through my brain.”

It started in March 2024, when his Christian beliefs got out of whack.

“There’s the actual, real, true, living God,” Smith told Erickson. “And then there’s my OCD god, and the OCD god is this condemning [deity. It’s like every wrong move you make, it’s like smacking the ruler against his hand. ‘Another bad move like that and you’re out of here.’”

Smith stayed at a facility in Colorado for 48 days. He later went to Mexico for igobaine treatment.

His OCD has moved from severe to mild. And he has returned to the Colts.

“Getting Braden Smith back, and he’s in a great spot,” Colts G.M. Chris Ballard told Erickson. “I think people forget how good Braden is.”

More important than being good, Smith seems to be getting better.

Here’s the best part. By sharing his story, Smith could encourage others who are suffering silently to get help.

[HoosierinFL]

Braden has now shared that he was suffering from a mental health issue last season.

It appears he went to an out-of-state treatment facility to help deal with it.


https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/braden-smith-dealt-with-severe-ocd-in-2024

holy shit.

[Racehorse]

IndyStar actually had a really good article on this, if you can believe it. It was not a hatchet piece, but one that showed the humanity of Smith, and the compassion of the Colts organization.

Of course, Doyel did not write it, just in case there was some confusion.

[ukcolt]

Something like this, i am guessing, is an issue that could become a problem again, but at least he now has the right coping mechanism in place to better deal with it.

From a Colts fan perspective, it isn't a physical injury that impairs his production and he can get back to his former high level of play, so long as he is in a good place mentally.

Really glad that he managed to get the help he needed and didn't go down the awful route he spoke about regards suicide. I am sure the entire Colts organisation will be working closely with him to help maintain his current state of mind. Jim Irsay might be fairly closely working with him as it feels like it has been reported he has dealt with similar issues in the past.

Here's hoping that Braden is truly feeling like he is ready to come back and play ball and more importantly enjoy his family and future life.