The Indianapolis Colts only acquired two outside players during the first few days of free agency, both of whom were on the defensive side of the ball, as the majority of discussions were stalled by Daniel Jones. Before the Maxx Crosby incident, the Colts made an attempt to recruit Trey Hendrickson, but that attempt failed when Hendrickson agreed to play for the Baltimore Ravens.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Indy did sign former Tennessee Titans defensive end Arden Key to a two-year, $20 million contract, as well as New York Jets edge rusher Michael Clemons to a three-year, $17. 5 million deal that could reach $18. 5 million.
At first glance, that last addition might not make much difference. Lou Anarumo, the defensive coordinator, is a secondary expert, but the pass rush is still lacking in this club. However, he might turn out to be a cunning purchase.
For the Indianapolis Colts, Michael Clemons adds versatility.
Although officially listed as an edge defender, Clemons has a lot of experience playing the interior of the defensive line. Although he hasn’t had many opportunities, he will probably be a rotational player in Indianapolis initially, but that capacity to play across the defensive line, including in the box, may be useful for Anarumo.
Clemons’ versatility will help him get and remain on the field early and frequently since he enjoys experimenting with different combinations.
Only 323 of his 578 plays last year were as a pass rusher. He recorded 22 total pressures, which included two sacks, four QB hits, sixteen hurries, and two deflected passes, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required). He’s an energetic man who should flourish in Tyquan Lewis’s position.
Additionally, Clemons may be a little bit of a diamond in the rough, as Zach Hicks, a Colts analyst, said on social media. In actual pass sets last season, he had a 16. 6% pass-rush win percentage, which would have been the team’s best in 2025.
This team must not, of course, rely on its accomplishments. With $54 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap, Colts GM Chris Ballard can still sign proven veterans like Jadeveon Clowney, Joey Bosa, or Arnold Ebiketie to help them get to the quarterback.
However, this is primarily a team sport, and guy number 53 has a role similar to that of the face of the franchise. Furthermore, there shouldn’t be any weak points on that unit with a defensive mastermind like Lou Anarumo making the decisions.
