It is no secret the Indianapolis Colts need to address the wide receiver room this offseason. Could that lead them toward targeting Robby Anderson in free agency?

The Road So Far

Anderson went undrafted following the 2016 NFL draft, signing on with the New York Jets where he would play the first four seasons of his career. A lenghty and speedy wide receiver, Anderson made a name for himself as a deep threat in his second season.

Anderson has always been a big-play receiver throughout his career. Over the last three seasons, he has averaged no fewer than 14.9 yards per reception. Being in a low-volume offense and working with a young quarterback in Sam Darnold, Anderson’s talents have been hit or miss.

In 2019, Anderson caught 52 passes for 779 yards and five touchdowns while averaging 15 yards per reception.

Fit With The Colts

With an aging T.Y. Hilton and not much proven behind him, the Colts have a massive need at wide receiver. Seeing as Chris Ballard doesn’t like to overpay for free agents in the top tier, Anderson could be a cheaper target for the Colts.

Anderson’s ability to stretch the field vertically would do wonders for a young quarterback if the Colts wind up drafting a Jordan Love or even a Justin Herbert if they get a chance. Anderson’s 4.36 speed would fit perfectly into Frank Reich’s scheme.

Anderson may not have prototypical size but he has enough length and speed to win on the outside as a vertical threat.

Price

Being in the tier below Amari Cooper, there is a chance Anderson sees a nice pay day. Spotrac’s market value model suggests he could be in line for a four-year, $48.2 million deal. It’s hard to see Ballard giving that much money to a wide receiver that hasn’t consistently dominated even if Anderson is an intriguing fit in the offense.

The ever-increasing salary cap should allow Ballard to pay more money based on the market, but it isn’t clear where the Colts value Anderson in terms of an average annual salary.

Conclusion

Anderson’s speed, length and ability as a deep threat should intrigue the Colts to pursue him in free agency. He would be a nice option to have for a young quarterback while opening things up for T.Y. Hilton as well. Anderson is a big-play machine that would fit well in an offense that sorely lacks playmakers.

Whether Ballard is comfortable paying Anderson over $10 million annually is the question, but they shouldn’t be afraid to pursue the 26-year-old wideout.

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