We know that the Indianapolis Colts are working towards re-signing free agents Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce, but what other free agent decisions does GM Chris Ballard have to make?
After taking a look at three non-Jones and Pierce free agents that the Colts should prioritize re-signing, here are three free agents that it’s time to move on from.
From the sounds of it, there could be a fair amount of roster turnover on the defensive side of the ball this offseason, and the list below reflects that.
DE Kwity Paye
Paye would record 38 pressures and four sacks last season. Compared to the rest of his position group league-wide, Paye ranked 52nd in pressures, according to PFF, 69th in pass rush win rate, and 88th in run stop rate.
The Colts need more pass-rush juice from the defensive end position as a whole and should use this offseason as an opportunity to reshape this unit, especially with Paye potentially earning a fairly hefty payday.
DE Samson Ebukam
Along with needing more pass-rush production in 2026, Ballard also mentioned wanting to get younger and faster on defense, specifically within the front seven. Re-signing Ebukam doesn’t accomplish that.
Ebukam recorded 23 pressures and three sacks last season.
LB Germaine Pratt
The addition of Pratt early in 2025 helped provide some stability to the linebacker position for the Colts. However, this is a position where Ballard needs to find a greater coverage presence. And again, referencing the need to get younger and faster, re-signing Pratt doesn’t accomplish that.
Like defensive end, Ballard should be looking to reshape this position group this offseason.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 3 free agents Indianapolis Colts should not re-sign in 2026
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
