Indianapolis Colts needs to address in the off-season

The Colts over the past several years have made the playoffs and they are just one year removed from getting to the Super Bowl. Last season making the playoffs were in serious danger, with all the injuries that occurred during the season it was an uphill battle but they made the dance and eventually all the injuries caught up to them as they were bounced out early. The Colts have some real needs on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. With the recent release of Bob Sanders, who was frequently injured and was rarely on the field, this leaves an opening in the secondary for a veteran presence. Over the past few seasons the Colts have not been a major player in the free agent market but maybe with a little salary freed up they can finally bring in a few solid veterans to help on both sides of the ball.

The glaring spots that need work are at quarterback (NOT at the starting position, they have possibly the greatest of all time in Peyton Manning) but at the back-up. Curtis Painter has struggled in his recent times of playing but he is a far cry from Jim Sorgi at the back up position. A good solid veteran back-up would ensure a real viable presence behind Manning. Honestly with playing Painter could be a good back-up but when you play behind one of the best of all time your time on the field is limited that is why you need a veteran. Also, the Colts really were exposed at wide receiver last season, losing Dallas Clark for much of the season and Austin Collie with his off and on concussion problems left Indianapolis with not many options. There are many veterans at the wide receiver position that would love to play with Manning and the pass-happy Colts offense. I believe that drafting for these positions would only create more work, whereas, if you bring in vets they are already adjusted to the NFL and can learn quickly.

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On defense, Gary Brackett is the captain but over last season the other linebackers had difficulty staying on the field. Solid linebackers opposite of Brackett are a real need, linebackers that can work sideline to sideline and will fit in with the fast Colts defense. Also with the release of Sanders, a viable presence at the Safety position is a need it would be great if they could get a player with the passion of Sanders only with durability on the field.

In my opinion, if the Colts are looking to improve they must be willing to take a chance in the free agent market. It is true that over the years the draft has been good to the Colts, but if they are looking to make a run now (with the veterans that they have now) bringing in other veterans must be top priority. The Colts draft well and I expect the same again this year, but I hope for a bigger splash in free agency and a return to the Super Bowl.

By Sam Adams
ProFootball-fans.com Staff Writer