The Indianapolis Colts reportedly worked out five players on Tuesday, according to Aaron Wilson of KRPC2 Houston. All five players are interior defensive linemen.
Workouts on Tuesdays–a typical off day for most teams–are a common weekly occurrence for both the Colts and the rest of the NFL. Perhaps someone stands out, and the Colts decide to make a practice squad addition.
But these workouts also allow teams to build out an emergency big board if an injury does strike later in the season, or if GM Chris Ballard believes an upgrade is needed.
According to Wilson, the five interior defensive linemen that the Colts worked out were Michael Dwumfour, Dashaun Mallory, Benning Potoa’e, Keith Randolph, and Gable Steveson.
Given that the Colts were just ripped apart in the run game by Joe Mixon and the Houston Texans, with Mixon rushing for 159 yards on his own and the Texans as a team totaling 213 rushing yards, it’s not all that surprising that perhaps the Colts are looking for additional competition.
It’s also worth noting that DeForest Buckner is currently working through a back injury, although he and the team both seem optimistic about his status for Sunday.
But if Buckner does miss any practices this week, the Colts use additional depth at the tackle position.
It has not been reported as of now that any of these five players will be signed, and if a signing does happen, I would expect it to be to the practice squad, not to the 53-man roster.
With the practice squad at full capacity, a corresponding cut would have to be made to make room. The only defensive tackle on the practice squad currently is McTelvin Agim.