3 Remaining Free Agents the Colts Should Pursue

The Indianapolis Colts have been making moves through free agency. This is a much-needed action for general manager Chris Ballard given how bad 2022 was, finishing with only four wins. This comes after years of criticism from fans and analysts about not being aggressive in free agency.

With names like kicker Matt Gay, wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie, and defensive end Samson Ebukam, it's clear Ballard wants to shift the narrative.

However, even with these moves, there is still work to be done in depth-needy areas. With this on the plate, let’s get to a couple of free agents that could suit the Colts well should Ballard be willing to ink the deals.

Gabe Jackson, Guard

I mentioned Gabe Jackson in a previous piece. However, I must mention him again because it simply makes too much sense given what the Colts need at guard. After being cut by the Seattle Seahawks for cap reasons, the 32-year-old is an excellent fit for rightly pushing Colts guard Will Fries.

With a veteran presence of nine years in the NFL, it would help solidify the position. Plus, Jackson is likely looking to show he doesn’t want to ride the bench anytime soon after getting cut, starting 130-of-131 total career games.

Either Jackson’s experience will win out and Indy will have a solid piece, or Fries edges Jackson out of the spot and is rightfully ready to start every Sunday.

Richie James, Wide Receiver

In 2022, Richie James had a resurgent year with the New York Giants. The four-year pro would tally 57 catches on 70 targets (a ridiculous 81.4% catch rate) for 569 yards and 4 touchdowns (all career highs).

While the Giants may keep him to address their depth-needy receiver room, there is a shot that Ballard would want James in Indianapolis.

Recently, former Buffalo Bills receiver Isaiah McKenzie was signed to a one-year deal to help the Colts, who lacked depth at receiver. This was warranted after the departure of Parris Campbell to the Giants.

James is a similar build to McKenzie and has special team experience. He’s a big playmaker with speed and space, which is what the Colts still need at the slot opposite McKenzie. It’s also highly probable that a wideout is drafted and the two veteran signees could help mentor the rookie(s).

With James available, we’ll see if the Colts brass wants to double up on slot pass-catchers.

Shaquill Griffin, Cornerback

The Colts recently announced that cornerback Kenny Moore II would return for the 2023 season. Despite this, the Colts still need players in the secondary. Similar to the receiver, it’s likely Ballard drafts a cornerback or two.

However, another signing at the corner would benefit the defense. The name that fits is veteran Shaquill Griffin from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Through six seasons (four with the Seahawks), Griffin has 327 tackles, 59 passes defended, and 6 interceptions.

While he came off a rough stretch with the Jaguars, he could find a new setting and start with the Colts. He’s also only going to be 28 come Week 1, so he could still make an impact and help any rookie corners brought in from the NFL Draft.

Outlook

It’s been a fast start to the offseason for the Colts. They’ve already been making important changes for the 2023 season through the roster and staff; will it continue through free agency as the NFL draft approaches? With how Ballard has been thus far, there’s a chance these could happen for the Colts.

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