Thanks to their unique quarterback situation, the Indianapolis Colts remain one of the most intriguing teams heading into next season. Last year, they were in the thick of the playoff picture in a loaded AFC up until the last few weeks.
With Anthony Richardson potentially taking that next step forward while facing competition from Daniel Jones, the Colts would like to return to the postseason. However, one analyst believes they need help elsewhere as well to stand a real shot at making the playoffs.
Indianapolis Colts Could Continue Their Defensive Focus
Last year, the defense for Indianapolis showed signs of life throughout the year. But, as a cumulative, they finished 23rd on PFSN’s Defense+ metric. Over the offseason, the front office has been hard at work to add more talent on that end.
A free agency haul of Camryn Bynum and Charvarius Ward should help in the secondary, with rookies like JT Tuimoloau and Justin Walley potentially contributing right from the get-go. However, their front line needs more help.
Last season, they ranked 30th in pressure rate without blitzing and were equally as bad on third downs. Outside of Zaire Franklin, the defensive line doesn’t have a ton of depth or talent, barring a sophomore explosion from Jaylon Carlies.
As a result, Brandon Austin of PFSN wants the Colts to target Kyzir White out of free agency. Not only could he provide some solid snaps at the spot, but he could also bring out the best in Carlies by bringing some competition at the spot.
A seven-year veteran in the league, White has had successful stints with the Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Arizona Cardinals. Last year, he put up 137 tackles and 2.5 sacks while playing in all 17 games for Arizona.
“White has the traits of a three-down linebacker, and he would be a strong fit next to Franklin,” Austin added. “Once a safety, he offers good athleticism, and he flies around the field as a tackler.”
Thank you, Kyzir pic.twitter.com/qDoypKOOic
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) October 6, 2024
For a team that doesn’t have a ton of depth behind the names mentioned, adding White would give them a veteran in the locker room, while also providing some reliable depth. The loss of E.J. Speed might be bigger than anticipated, but Indianapolis can make up for it by adding the former fourth-round draft pick.
On the offensive end, the Colts’ best hope is Richardson finding some consistency with his passing and completion numbers. Otherwise, three seasons into his career, it might be time for the organization to look in a different direction.