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According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Indianapolis Colts are signing tackle Austin Howard. Howard, 31, has played for four teams previously including the New York Jets, Baltimore Ravens, Oakland Raiders and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Howard has played, and started in all 16 games in 4 of his last 6 seasons, and was graded in the middle of the pack amongst tackles by PFF in 2017.
The Colts are signing free agent OT Austin Howard, source says. GM Chris Ballard continues to work on protecting Andrew Luck.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 9, 2018
Howard instantly makes the right tackle spot more intriguing as Denzelle Good, Joe Haeg and Le’Raven Clark will all be making a run at the starting role this summer. It’s fair to assume that Howard doesn’t fit into any long-term plans when considering his age and that he’s never stuck on any roster for more than 3 seasons, however, he does make the line theoretically better in the here and now.
The Ravens declined his option for 2018 and now the undrafted journeyman tackle will be in a good position to earn that starting role in Indianapolis after being a full-time starter last season.
The Colts need the help along the offensive line and whether or not Howard is named the starter, the competition and depth at the position is much more interesting as training camp sits just on the horizon.
UPDATE:
The Colts officially announced the signing of Howard as well as the waiving of offensive guard Isaiah Williams.
We have signed T Austin Howard and waived G Isaiah Williams: https://t.co/fmNC5ql2Ue pic.twitter.com/BpIsStPFng
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 9, 2018
Next, Garafolo sent an update with contract details:
Numbers on the Austin Howard Colts deal: One year, $3.75 million base value with another $500k in incentives, source says. As deals for free agents in May go, that's pretty good right there.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 9, 2018