The Colts weren’t extremely active in free agency this offseason despite having a ton of cap space. They still have millions of dollars to spend if they so choose, and there are some quality free agents that remain on the open market.
Indianapolis’ pass rush was a major issue last season. They ranked 29th in the league in sack percentage and often let opposing quarterbacks stand in the pocket for far too long and pick apart their inexperienced secondary.
Chris Ballard made a couple of additions to the defensive line in the draft and free agency, but those moves probably won’t be enough to create an above-average pass rush next season.
James Harrison has made a Hall of Fame career out of rushing the passer, and he could provide the extra juice the Colts’ defensive line needs to get after the quarterback.
Harrison turned 40 years old a couple of months ago, but he continues to provide value as a situational pass rusher. Harrison was frustrated with his playing time in Pittsburgh last season, so he forced a move to New England.
Harrison made an immediate impact with the Patriots racking up two sacks in his first game with New England, and he played well in their postseason run to the Super Bowl.
Harrison had five or more sacks in each season from 2014-16, and he proved he has something left in the tank during his stint with the Patriots last year.
Signing Harrison to a one-year contract wouldn’t be very expensive for the Colts, and he could provide some veteran leadership along with his situational pass rushing prowess. If I was Chris Ballard, I’d take a hard look at making a low-risk move for James Harrison.