The Indianapolis Colts were busy throughout the early part of free agency, which may have been an uncharacteristic trait for them. However, it has led to immense praise thus far.
Though we are just one week into the free agency period, the Colts are already being talked about as potential AFC South winners. The improvements made are huge, and analysts are being more bullish on Indy returning to form.
In a panel asking which team is most improved through early free agency, Dan Graziano of ESPN chose the Colts. Here’s what he had to say:
The DeForest Buckner move isn’t getting the attention it deserves. He’ll play the vital 3-technique defensive tackle position in the Colts’ defense and make everyone around him better. And the big signing on offense was of course quarterback Philip Rivers, who will play with better pass protection than he has had in years and should rebound for a late-career shot at that elusive Super Bowl.
The Buckner trade was a huge shock but a good one. He’s going to play a huge role in the defense and while it remains to be seen where he will line up most, his impact should be felt throughout all three levels of the defense.
With Buckner leading the interior, the Colts have a solid corps of pass rushers along with Justin Houston, Ben Banogu and Kemoko Turay. It should also help Denico Autry when Buckner is lined up as the one-technique.
The Rivers signing has been polarizing. While most would agree the move is an upgrade, the contract is steep for one year. But it’s just that. A one-year deal won’t have future implications, especially since the Colts have no quarterbacks under contract through the 2020 season.
The Colts have certainly improved to the point where they are being favored to win the division, a spot they were in a year ago before everything got turned upside down.
It would be a surprise to see the Colts make another big move during free agency, though with the way Chris Ballard has tweaked his approach, nothing is out of consideration.
Regardless, the Colts are being viewed among the teams that have improved the most after just one week of free agency.