Indianapolis Colts: 5 Big-name free agents to target in 2020
By Samuel Teets
3. Chris Harris or Byron Jones, CB
Not to insult Pierre Desir or Kenny Moore, but the Colts need a premier shutdown cornerback. Most high-profile teams possess at least one Pro Bowl-caliber cornerback, with Kansas City serving as a notable exception. Right now, Indianapolis’s coverage cannot compete with the league’s top receiving threats.
The Colts face DeAndre Hopkins twice a season. A.J. Brown and DJ Chark also look like emerging receiving threats. Indianapolis cannot afford to get behind in the cornerback race. Both Harris and Jones pose potential drawbacks, but they outclass the corners on Indianapolis’ roster.
The New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles seem primed to get in a bidding war over Jones. Both teams will make a run at the former All-Pro, and Jones could end up with a record deal. However, Jones did not produce many turnovers or make the Pro Bowl this past season. Can he replicate his 2018, All-Pro play consistently?
At 27 years old, Jones can play at a prime level for another five seasons. On the other hand, Harris’ 31st birthday is this year. The former First-Team All-Pro is slightly past his prime and could experience a sharp drop off in the next two or three years.
With Clayton Geathers entering free agency, the Colts also need a strong safety. At a glance, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, who produced one of his best seasons with the Chicago Bears last year, could solidify Indianapolis’s safety duo. While neither he nor Malik Hooker stand out as superstars, they both play at an above-average level.