Strategic Shift in Free Agency
The Indianapolis team, which last offseason largely bypassed the outside free agent market by securing only two backup players, now appears set for a more aggressive approach. General manager Chris Ballard faces mounting pressure as several key free agents within the organization seem more viable off the roster than retained. This shift in strategy underlines the imminent need to plug gaps with external recruits, a move that could prove essential for future stability.
Market Dynamics and Veteran Movement
A recent analytical exercise reimagined free agency using a model akin to the NFL draft—only this time, teams are ordered based on projected salary cap space. In this scenario, the Colts see their starting right guard, Will Fries, departing for the Minnesota Vikings with the seventh overall selection in the free agency order. While Fries carries the reputation of the top free agent on their roster this year, his market allure has attracted significant attention from other teams. Meanwhile, the Colts were assigned a veteran center in this exercise, Drew Dalman, whose credentials include a steady rise from a backup role to one of the league’s top interior linemen.
Assessing the Veteran Option
At 26 years old and known for his rock-solid performance, Dalman has emerged as a consistent presence since becoming a starter in 2022. His journey to becoming a reliable force on the offensive line is marked by impressive grades in recent seasons, reflecting his potential as a long-term replacement for the aging incumbent. However, his recent history of ankle injuries—having missed 11 games over the past two years—introduces an element of risk that the Colts cannot overlook. With free-agent center Ryan Kelly expected to be on the move, combined with available backups like Danny Pinter and Wesley French, the search for the ideal veteran-for-veteran replacement intensifies.
Countdown to the New League Year
The free agency frenzy is set to begin next week as teams approach the new league year. Negotiations with outside players can start as early as 12:00 p.m. E.T. on Monday, March 10, and will continue until 3:59 p.m. E.T. on Wednesday, March 12. At exactly 4:00 p.m. E.T. on Wednesday, clubs are allowed to officially sign new players. This timeline is crucial for the Colts as they strive to address their roster needs amid a competitive market, marking a pivotal period that could shape their competitive prospects for the upcoming season.
