Colts post-free agency position review: Evaluating cornerback position

The Indianapolis Colts have had a busy offseason so far, making multiple moves in free agency to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. One position that has seen significant changes is the cornerback position, with the team adding new faces and saying goodbye to some familiar ones.

The Colts made a splash in free agency by signing veteran cornerback Xavier Rhodes to a one-year deal. Rhodes, a former first-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Colts’ secondary. He is known for his physicality and ball skills, which should make him a valuable addition to the defense.

In addition to Rhodes, the Colts also re-signed cornerback T.J. Carrie to a one-year deal. Carrie was a solid contributor for the Colts last season, starting eight games and recording 27 tackles. His return adds depth and versatility to the cornerback room, as he can play both outside and in the slot.

However, the Colts also saw some turnover at the cornerback position, as they released veteran Pierre Desir and saw Quincy Wilson sign with the New York Jets in free agency. Desir had been a starter for the Colts in recent seasons, but his play declined in 2019, leading to his release. Wilson, a former second-round pick, never quite lived up to expectations in Indianapolis and will look to revive his career with the Jets.

With these changes, let’s take a closer look at the current state of the cornerback position for the Colts. The team now has a mix of experienced veterans and young talent at the position, giving them depth and flexibility heading into the 2020 season.

Rhodes and Carrie are the likely starters at cornerback for the Colts, with Rhodes expected to man one outside spot and Carrie potentially playing in the slot. Rhodes brings a physical presence to the secondary and should help shore up the Colts’ pass defense, which struggled at times last season. Carrie, meanwhile, is a versatile player who can play multiple positions in the secondary, making him a valuable asset for the Colts.

Behind Rhodes and Carrie, the Colts have some young talent at cornerback. Rock Ya-Sin, a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, showed promise as a rookie and is expected to compete for playing time this season. Ya-Sin is a physical corner with good ball skills, and he could take a big step forward in his development in year two.

Another young cornerback to watch is Marvell Tell III, a fifth-round pick in the 2019 draft. Tell saw limited action as a rookie but showed flashes of potential when given the opportunity. He has good size and athleticism for the position and could push for more playing time in his second season.

The Colts also have some depth at cornerback with players like Kenny Moore II and Shakial Taylor on the roster. Moore is primarily a slot corner but has the versatility to play outside if needed. He is a playmaker in the secondary, recording four interceptions and 2.5 sacks last season. Taylor, an undrafted free agent in 2019, impressed in limited action as a rookie and will look to build on that this season.

Overall, the Colts have a solid group of cornerbacks heading into the 2020 season. With the addition of Rhodes and the return of Carrie, the team has improved its depth and talent at the position. Rhodes brings experience and playmaking ability, while Carrie adds versatility and depth. Young players like Ya-Sin and Tell will look to continue their development and push for playing time.

The cornerback position will be a key area to watch for the Colts this season, as they look to improve their pass defense and compete for a playoff spot. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the Colts have the pieces in place to have a strong secondary in 2020.

In conclusion, the Indianapolis Colts have made some significant moves at the cornerback position this offseason, adding talent and depth to the roster. With veterans like Xavier Rhodes and T.J. Carrie leading the way, and young players like Rock Ya-Sin and Marvell Tell III pushing for playing time, the Colts have a solid group of cornerbacks heading into the 2020 season. The secondary will be a key area to watch for the Colts this season, as they look to improve their pass defense and make a playoff push. With the pieces in place, the Colts have reason to be optimistic about their cornerback group heading into the upcoming season.

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Source: USA Today