Report: Colts Have ‘Legitimate Interest’ in Broncos DT Shelby Harris

According to KOAColorado NFL Insider Benjamin Allbright, the Indianapolis Colts have already shown interest in Denver Broncos free agent defensive tackle Shelby Harris:

Originally drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 7th round of the 2014 NFL Draft, the 6’2”, 290 pound Harris has also spent time with the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys organizations (the latter where he spent a few weeks on the Cowboys practice squad with linebackers coach [now Colts defensive coordinator] Matt Eberflus).

Harris is coming off a season for the Broncos in which he recorded 49 tackles, 6.0 sacks, 28 QB pressures, 8 batted passes, and a forced fumble—making all 16 starts.

Per Pro Football Focus (subscription), Harris was their 20th best rated interior defender with a +76.8 grade overall this past season.

He is just one season removed from an elite +90.4 grade overall in 2018.

As it stands, the Colts could really use help along the interior of their defensive line.

General manager Chris Ballard has said the “three technique” defensive tackle really drives the defense, and the Colts received inconsistent production from the position in 2019.

Starter Denico Autry was once again solid as a pass rusher (although his production dipped), and fellow veteran Margus Hunt’s play really regressed after a breakout 2018 performance.

Meanwhile, Colts 2018 second round pick Tyquan Lewis had an entirely forgettable second season—and needs to bounce back in a big way.

Harris is a well-rounded defensive tackle who could immediately upgrade the Colts in the middle of their defensive line and makes a lot of sense for Indianapolis.

Still only 28 years old, he should have a handful of high impact seasons left for whoever ultimately ends up signing him to a new deal.