The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly expected to have interest in free agent edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu when the new league year opens in just over a week’s time.
Nwosu, who is 25 years old, is expected to have a solid market if he hits free agency, per Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network. There is also the chance the Los Angeles Chargers retain him before any team can have a chance to make an offer.
But Wilson reported the Colts are among the teams most interested in the versatile pass rusher.
While remaining in Los Angeles is a viable scenario for Nwosu — sources emphasized –, he has plenty of options. I’m told that includes the Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, whom sources predict will move on from Za’Darius Smith and sign Preston Smith to a new contract, along with the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets.
Wilson suggested that Nwosu might make between “$10-13 million” while a “lowball offer for him would be in the $7-9 million range.” Pro Football Focus predicts that Nwosu will sign a three-year deal worth $8.75 million per year.
The Colts have enough salary-cap space to go after a target like Nwosu, who is both young and with upside. Nwosu was one of the 12 free agent targets we suggested the Colts should pursue.
Nwosu had a career year in 2021 with the Chargers. The former USC Trojan recorded 40 total pressures and a 12.3% pass rush win rate, according to PFF. His 5.0 sacks were a career-high as well.
Nwosu has the versatility to work on the edge likely in the LEO position while also serving as coverage backer if he’s asked to do so.
The Colts should be doing all they can to bring more talent into the edge rusher room, but it remains to be seen if Chris Ballard will be willing to compete in a market for a young player like Nwosu.
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