Since the Colts have not officially announced their collegiate free agents, here is an updated list of those we have confirmed have been signed:
Brandon James, RB, Florida
Blair White, WR, Michigan State
Brandon King, CB, Purdue
Brett Swenson, K, Michigan State
Vuna Tuihalamaka, LB, Arizona
Tim Hiller, QB, Western Michigan
Jeff Linkenbach, OT, Cincinnati
Andrew Tyshovnytsky, OT, Fordham
Javarris James, RB, Miami
Thad Turner, CB, Ohio
Mike Newton, CB-S, Buffalo
David Caldwell, S, Williams & Mary
Of this group, Brandon James and Blair White are return threats. This means that Ray Fisher has some healthy competition heading into mini-camps and Training Camp. Swenson is likely someone they are bringing in to lighten the workload for Adam Vinatieri.
Again, I'll repeat this for people who can't seem to understand the obvious: Adam Vinatieri will be the kicker for the Colts in 2010. Polian said he is "on schedule" this past weekend, and gave no hint whatsoever that the Colts are looking for an option other than AV.
Linkenbach and Tyshovnytsky have a real shot to make the team because the Colts are so thin at tackle. I realize Tyshovnytsky is listed as a guard at NFL.com, but he is 6'3, 292 pounds. That seems more "tackle" than "guard" to me.
With Jacob Lacey established, Kevin Thomas drafted, and Ray Fisher offering so many options in terms of playing corner and special teams, I don't see any way Turner, Newton, or King make the roster. Vuna Tuihalamaka, the linebacker out of 'Zona, has a shot to stick around. At 6'2, 230 pounds, he offers size and speed at the SAM backer spot. He really shined at his Pro Day, running a 4.65. He started all 13 games last year, recording 72 tackles, 5 1/2 tackles for losses.
And finally, Javarris James is cousin to the greatest running back in Colts history: Edgerrin James. Edge calls him "Baby J," which means that is what we will call him. For sentimental reasons, I hope Baby J makes the team.