The Indianapolis Colts were busier than ever before once the new league year opened in March, taking their window of opportunity seriously as they try to win now.
From making blockbuster trades to signing a new quarterback and adding depth all throughout the defensive side of the ball, general manager Chris Ballard set out to address many needs before the 2020 NFL draft arrives on April 23.
With free agency just about done, here are five takeaways for the Colts:
“Treat Yo Self” kind of offseason
If there were an offseason in which Ballard felt this was the time to splurge, it’s this one. Going against the notion that he doesn’t like to spend big in free agency, Ballard used all of that salary cap space and flexibility to treat himself to several new additions.
The DeForest Buckner trade was a big shock to those outside the organization but Ballard made it clear they believe in him by doubling down on a four-year extension worth $84 million. Then, he went out and signed quarterback Philip Rivers to a one-year, $25 million deal.
Mix in a few depth pieces in Sheldon Day, Xavier Rhodes and T.J. Carrie, and Ballard wound up spending more money this free agency than ever before in his tenure with the Colts.