Colts sign CB Korey Lindsey, cut S Micah Pellerin

Well, the Colts did acquire a corner, just not the one everybody expected. Instead of trading for Cowboy Mike “Possum” Jenkins (an idea ColtPlay, at least, is not sold on), they claimed Korey Lindsey (5101/194/4.56pd in 2011) off waivers from the Cardinals. A FCS star and defensive captain with the Salukis, Lindsey bagged 14 picks in college. The book on him is that he’s a very gifted athlete who lacks straight-line speed, deep man coverage skills and the strength to win battles with bigger receivers. Still, he’s a whiz at zone coverage, has extraordinary timing, is not afraid to dive into the ugly stuff, can blitz and is a big rah-rah team player who played big in big games. He has some punt and kick return experience, but nothing to brag about. Drafted in the seventh round by the Bengals, they made him a final cut and he wound up on the Cardinals’ practice squad.  They recently cut him for University of Arizona wide receiver Gino Crump.

It’s hard to see how Lindsey fits on the opening-day team, unless injuries strike. I think you have to think the Colts will keep Jerraud Powers, Kevin Thomas, Chris Rucker and Cassius Vaughn. That leaves a lot of guys fighting for that fifth and perhaps final roster spot at the position. It wouldn’t be a shock if Lindsey won it outright, just a mild surprise. On a related note, something about Lindsey, the way he plays and carries himself, makes me think he could have a career as a coach after he hangs up his cleats.

Interestingly, Lindsey has been assigned  jersey number, 42, but tackle George Foster, who was signed earlier, has not.

To make room for Lindsey, the Colts cut Micah Pellerin, another FCS corner, but he was trying to make the switch to free safety.    

Late note: The Bengals, who originally drafted Lindsey, also put in a waiver claim for him.