Thursday, February 7, 2013

Among the cuts

Every so often, ColtPlay takes a look at players made available by other teams, and theorizes on whether or not they would be good Colts.

Demetress Bell
An impressive physical specimen who has not succeeded as an NFL left tackle in a number of chances in Buffalo and Philadelphia. Seems like a great kid who could develop into something, but I'd pass because the Colts are in need of immediate help on the line, not another "maybe" prospect.

Michael Boley
A long-time contributor as a 4-3 outside linebacker, Boley's play fell off considerably last year, and the Giants benched him for a couple of no-names. It's unlikely Boley can rebound this late in his career, and he really doesn't fit the Colts' system.

Ahmad Bradshaw
An extremely productive back for many years, Bradshaw is recovering from multiple breaks in his foot, but says he should be ready for training camp. He'd like to re-sign with the Giants, but they appear to have moved on at the position. Although Bradshaw has some excellent qualities, I can't see the Colts being interested because they hope to feature Vick Ballard at halfback, and bringing a big name into the fold would harm that, and because Bradshaw is not an effective pass blocker.

Chris Canty
Although injuries reduced his playing time in 2012, Canty was still very impressive when he did play, and still looks like one of the best players at his position (4-3 tackle/3-4 end) in the league. He's a good fit in the Colts system and a high-character guy. But he's also 30 years old and coming off a series of injuries. The Colts would be well-advised to be among the teams offering him a one- or front-loaded two-year deal.

Martin Parker
An undrafted rookie 4-3 tackle last season, Parker never saw the field. The Colts might take a flyer on him as a backup tackle/end prospect, but I doubt it.

Stephen Peterman
A long-time contributor at guard, Peterman has totally degraded as a pass blocker in recent years, while retaining his colossal skills as a run blocker. Since protecting the franchise is Job 1 in Indy, I don't see the Colts having much interest in him. He's also not the type of guard who fits Pep's offensive scheme.

Frostee Rucker
Known in the NFL for years as an unspectacular but competent run stopper, few were surprised he didn't succeed after the Browns handed him a huge contract to be a designated pass rusher. He could draw some interest from the Colts, but it's unlikely.

Kyle Vanden Bosch
After years of terrorizing the league, it looked like Vanden Bosch hit the wall last season. A big 4-3 end, I can't see Vanden Bosch adapting to, or finding a spot in, the Colts' defense. And, as a 34 year old with lots of miles on him, I don't think they would make a bid on him even if he could.


1 comment:

Roy said...

Maybe Canty or Rucker at reasonable prices, but no one else looks like there would even be interest.