With offseason programs now behind us, we will be getting a jump start on our training camp preview by going player-by-player through the Indianapolis Colts’ 91-man roster.
Going alphabetically, up next is safety Nick Cross.
Nick Cross’ profile
2024 Snap count totals
2024 PFF grades
2024 Season Review
With unknowns at the safety position entering the 2024 season, the Colts needed more from Nick Cross, and he was able to provide that. Despite the overall highs and lows from the Colts’ defense last season, Cross was one of the bright spots on that side of the ball.
Cross’ 140 total tackles were among the most in the NFL of any defender. This resulted in him making a particularly big impact in the run game, where he ranked fourth among all safeties in stops last season, according to PFF’s metrics.
In coverage, Cross held opponents to under 10 yards per catch and forced three interceptions–which was tied for the most on the team–and two pass breakups.
“It just comes down to reps,” Cross said, via the Colts team site. “I’ve always said that. Reps, comfortability, being able to go out there and do the same thing over and over again, it gets you more comfortable and you go out there and your athleticism and capabilities can show.”
Looking ahead to the 2025 season
Cross found a home last season at strong safety, and when paired with Cam Bynum this year, that is likely where the bulk of his playing time in 2025 will come from as well. There could also be more opportunities to blitz this season.
However, in Lou Anarumo’s disguise-heavy defensive scheme, versatility and movement will be key to playing the safety and cornerback positions within this system. Cross’ previous experience at free safety while with the Colts should benefit him in this new system.
There is going to be a greater reliance on the defensive back position groups under Anarumo, which could mean more coverage opportunities for Cross against tight ends and running backs.
“It’s a matchup league,” Anarumo said, via the Indy Star. “If the offense puts out a certain personnel group, you want to be able to match it with what they’re doing. Especially on third down. You want to try to get cover guys covering receivers and, nowadays, these tight ends … The days, to me, of putting linebackers on tight ends is not ideal for the defense.”
The next step for the Cross will be building upon what we saw from him in 2024, so that level of play is now his new norm.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2025 Indianapolis Colts roster preview: S Nick Cross
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
