Since the Colts will booted from the playoffs by the Patriots in the divisional round, we've stated that wide receiver would be a big need going into the 2014 offseason. Apparently, the Colts and general manager Ryan Grigson agree.
As reported by Josina Anderson of ESPN, the Indianapolis Colts will host free agent wide receiver Hakeem Nicks on Friday.
WR Hakeem Nicks just told me, "I'm flying to Indy tonight. The plan is to meet with the Colts tomorrow."
— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 13, 2014
Nicks is a former first round pick of the New York Giants back in 2009, and for the first three years of his career, he was a top tier NFL wide receiver. However, for the last two seasons, knee and foot injuries robbed Nicks of his production and overall playmaking ability. Once viewed as a franchise No. 1 receiver, he was unceremoniously allowed to walk into free agency on March 11th.
The issue with the Colts signing Nicks is what type of contract he wants. For two years, Nicks has been a fairly poor player due to injuries. To sign him to any kind of multi-year deal is a gamble. Nicks did recently state that he'd love to play in Indianapolis and catch passes from quarterback Andrew Luck.
If healthy, Nicks is a dynamic receiver, and would add a very explosive element to the Colts offense. Unlike speedster T.Y. Hilton, Nicks is a big target with a knack for making defenders look stupid in the redzone. He caught 24 touchdowns his first three years in the league. These last two seasons, he's caught only three.
Health is the issue with Nicks. Not talent. The Carolina Panthers are also reportedly interested in his services.