Colts roster outlook: Upgrades, downgrades or lateral moves on defense

Taking a look at the offseason moves the Indianapolis Colts made on the defensive side of the ball.

Cornerback

Gained: Xavier Rhodes, T.J. Carrie, Isaiah Rodgers
Lost: Pierre Desir, Quincy Wilson, Marvell Tell (opt-out)

The Colts made some interesting moves at cornerback this offseason by essentially swapping Desir for Rhodes and trading Wilson for the pick that selected Rodgers. After it was clear the depth needed work, the Colts added some versatile pieces.

Rhodes is the biggest question mark as he has been on a decline the last few seasons. Maybe it was due to injuries or maybe he’s coming to the end of his career, but there is a lot of risk with the veteran. Carrie should provide solid depth both outside and inside, but he’s unlikely to be a gamechanger.

Rodgers is an intriguing one because he has the ball skills, speed and special teams ability to have an impact relatively soon in his NFL career despite being a sixth-round pick.

The opt-out of Tell is a big blow to the depth of the position and one that was already thin on paper.

Verdict: Lateral move