The offseason is officially here for the Indianapolis Colts and their future at left tackle could come a bit into doubt as Anthony Castonzo isn’t ruling out the consideration of retirement.
As his current contract comes to an end, Castonzo has a lot to think about. He would certainly be paid handsomely on the open market—by the Colts or another team. But at the age of 31, Castonzo isn’t ruling out retirement.
Anthony Castonzo was very clear that he’s not ruling out the possibility of hanging up the spikes. He’s officially a free agent and would be in high demand. Said he had a lot of thinking to do.
— Jim Ayello (@jimayello) December 30, 2019
Castonzo had arguably his best season since entering the league as a first-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. He combined borderline elite production with availability as he played every snap for the Colts in 2019.
The left side of the offensive line was one of the best the league saw this season. Castonzo working next to Quenton Nelson has been a treat both in the run game and in pass protection.
What is a bit encouraging is that Castonzo said he’s essentially weighing two options: re-sign with the Colts or hang up the spikes. At least it seems there isn’t any consideration to test offers from other teams.
If Castonzo retires, which seems like a possibility, it would give the Colts a major problem this offseason. They don’t have anyone on the roster talented enough to step in right away and provide reliable protection on the blindside.
Signing Castonzo to a short extension should be high on the list of priorities for general manager Chris Ballard, but if the former’s heart isn’t into playing anymore, there might not be much he can do.
It will be an interesting offseason, to say the least, and now we will have to keep an eye on retirement watch for the 31-year-old Castonzo.