Today seems like a good day for the Colts to sign Justin Simmons.
The time for playing around is over. It is time to make the call.
The Indianapolis Colts had a less than average defense last year. Their overall rating sat at 24th in the NFL. With that said, the Indianapolis version of the team did break a franchise record for most sacks. What that shows and what was obvious to see was that the defensive front for the Colts was a definite strength. Their ability to apply pressure to the opposing quarterback made it easier on the defensive backfield. Unfortunately, even with that advantage, the backfield still struggled in coverage. They were young and raw, and it showed. Someone who could help remedy some of those struggles is still sitting out on the open market: Justin Simmons.
The Colts are using training camp as they should by experimenting and trying new things out. Sometimes that involves using players out of position or away from their non-traditional role. It appears they are taking this approach with Julian Blackmon.
The Colts are free to try whatever they want. They know more about the sport, the team, and the positions than I do. It does seem curious, however, to move a player, who had a strong season last year, out of position. Stephen Holder goes on to question the thing that many of us are regarding the seemingly confusing and discombobulated open competition that appears to be occurring.
Enter Justin Simmons. Although he is on the older side of what Chris Ballard usually brings in, a veteran on a still relatively young unit would be a great addition. He is coming off a Pro-Bowl season with 70 tackles with three interceptions. Watching last year’s defense turn no-name receivers into stars, you cannot tell me he wouldn’t upgrade the unit immediately. Not only would his play making elevate the backfield, he would also allow Blackmon to slide back to strong safety and play to his strengths.
The Colts have the money to make it work. Do a Ballard special. Give Simmons a two year contract, so you aren’t tied to an aging player. It will give Simmons the money he wants and provide the Colts with the type of player they need. The game of chicken needs to end between Ballard and the free agent pool. Someone like Simmons is just waiting to be signed. Be aggressive, and give him what he wants.
What Chris Ballard and the Colts are waiting for, I do not know. He tried a move like this a few years ago at left tackle, and it blew up in his face. There is a great opportunity to bring in a quality veteran in Justin Simmons. There is no reason to wait any longer. Make the call. Get Simmons to Indy.
