Indianapolis Colts Free Agent Offensive Lineman Predicted to ‘Surprise’ on the Market

The Indianapolis Colts’ offensive line (OL) has been one of the critical areas of focus for the team over the past several seasons. With the Colts’ recent struggles on the offensive line, a mix of injuries, and the need to rebuild in some spots, their free agents will play an important role in shaping the team’s future. One of the most intriguing parts of the NFL offseason is free agency, where players are allowed to test the open market and negotiate with potential suitors. For the Indianapolis Colts, some offensive linemen stand out as free agents who could surprise the league with their potential impact on the market.

In this extensive breakdown, we will explore the Colts’ free agent offensive linemen, how their careers have shaped up in Indianapolis, and why some are predicted to surprise the NFL free agent market. We will analyze the implications of these free agents on the team’s future, including the potential for a rebuild, and which players are likely to garner significant attention from other teams.

1. Overview of the Indianapolis Colts Offensive Line

Over the past several years, the Colts’ offensive line has been a mixed bag. At its best, it has been one of the most formidable units in the NFL, but at its worst, it has been a major liability. Injuries have played a large role in the struggles of the offensive line, but personnel issues have also contributed to inconsistent performance.

When the Colts had their best seasons with Andrew Luck at quarterback, their offensive line was one of the league’s best, especially during the 2018 season when the line was ranked among the top units in the NFL. That year, the line allowed just 18 sacks, which was the second-lowest total in the league. However, since the retirement of Luck and the departure of key players like center Ryan Kelly (who was once a star but has had issues with injuries), the line’s performance has deteriorated.

One of the reasons that the Colts’ offensive line is currently in a state of flux is the need for younger talent and depth. The Colts have been dealing with issues of injuries to key players, a lack of development from certain draft picks, and an inconsistency in play that has kept them from achieving the same success they once had.

With free agency coming up, several players on the offensive line have the potential to hit the open market. Some of these players are integral to the team’s current unit, while others have played lesser roles but could be sought after by other teams in need of offensive line help.

2. Key Free Agent Offensive Linemen for the Indianapolis Colts

Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key offensive linemen from the Indianapolis Colts who are expected to be free agents this offseason. These players have either played significant roles for the team or shown potential to develop into key starters.

a. Quenton Nelson – Guard

Quenton Nelson is one of the most celebrated players on the Colts’ roster. Drafted sixth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, Nelson quickly established himself as one of the best interior offensive linemen in the league. His combination of strength, footwork, and technique makes him a top-tier talent who is consistently named to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams. However, the major question surrounding Nelson as a free agent is his contract situation.

Nelson’s current contract expires after the 2025 season, and the Colts are in a unique position in that they may have to choose whether to commit a huge portion of their cap space to retaining their star guard. Should he hit the free agent market, Nelson is likely to receive substantial interest from other teams, as there is no shortage of franchises in need of an elite offensive lineman to help solidify their front lines.

What makes Nelson potentially surprising on the free agent market is his status as one of the few elite players at his position. Offensive linemen of his caliber don’t typically become available, and any team looking to build a strong offensive front would make him a priority. His market could command an astronomical contract, especially if there are teams that see him as a cornerstone player to help a struggling offensive line.

b. Ryan Kelly – Center

Ryan Kelly is another important free agent for the Colts. The veteran center has been with the Colts since being drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Kelly was instrumental in the team’s offensive success during their peak years and played a vital role in the protection of Andrew Luck. Over time, Kelly’s production has been solid, but injuries have taken a toll on his ability to stay on the field. Despite his injury history, Kelly’s experience and leadership would be a valuable asset to any team in need of a center who can immediately contribute.

Kelly is likely to generate interest from teams looking for a reliable veteran presence at the center position. While he may not be at the same level as Nelson in terms of all-around dominance, Kelly’s ability to anchor the offensive line and his expertise in calling out protections will make him a sought-after commodity. The surprise factor here lies in the fact that Kelly’s availability could prompt a bidding war, especially from teams who are looking to upgrade their offensive line with an experienced leader who can help protect their quarterbacks.

c. Matt Pryor – Tackle

Matt Pryor is an interesting case when it comes to free agency. Pryor was originally drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles as a late-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, but it wasn’t until his time with the Colts that he truly had an opportunity to showcase his abilities as a versatile offensive lineman. Pryor played both tackle and guard during his tenure in Indianapolis and provided valuable depth on the line. He started in a few games during the 2022 season and has been a reliable fill-in option when injuries occurred.

Pryor’s versatility makes him an appealing free agent, as many teams value linemen who can play multiple positions along the front. While Pryor’s ceiling might not be as high as some of the more established starters, his flexibility could give him a surprising market. Teams that are looking for depth on the offensive line or a reliable swing tackle could view Pryor as a smart signing to add depth to their roster.

d. Dennis Kelly – Tackle

Dennis Kelly has been an experienced and reliable veteran presence in the NFL for years. Having played with several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, Kelly was signed by the Colts in the 2022 offseason. Though he was brought in primarily as a depth piece, Kelly proved to be a dependable player when called upon. As a right tackle, Kelly provides a physical presence and can step into a starting role if needed.

What makes Dennis Kelly’s situation potentially surprising is that teams often value experienced tackles who can play both as starters and as backups. Although Kelly may not be a top-tier starter, his steady play and veteran experience could make him an underrated free agent. He might surprise some teams by finding a starting role on a squad in need of a reliable tackle to protect their quarterback.

3. Market Dynamics: What to Expect for Colts’ OL Free Agents

The free agent market for offensive linemen is always a hot commodity. Teams that are in a win-now window or are looking to rebuild their offensive line will often pay top dollar for a veteran presence or a proven starter who can immediately improve their line. For the Colts’ free agents, their market value will depend on several factors:

1. Team Needs: Several NFL teams have struggled to protect their quarterbacks in recent years and will be in the market for offensive line help. The Colts’ free agents, such as Quenton Nelson and Ryan Kelly, could be high on the list for teams that need an immediate upgrade.
2. Cap Space: Teams with ample cap space will be able to sign high-profile free agents, and this could lead to a bidding war for Nelson, Kelly, and others. With the cap expected to rise in the coming years, the demand for top-tier offensive linemen could drive up salaries significantly.
3. Position Demand: Interior offensive linemen and tackles are always in high demand in the NFL. Quenton Nelson, in particular, is considered one of the best in the league, so his value will likely be astronomical.
4. Injury History: Players like Ryan Kelly and Matt Pryor, who have experienced injuries in the past, may see their markets affected by their health. However, the experience and ability they bring to the table will still make them attractive to several teams.
5. Potential for Development: Young players like Matt Pryor or Dennis Kelly may surprise on the market if they prove their ability to contribute consistently at a high level. Teams in need of depth or developmental projects could view these players as valuable.

4. Predictions for Free Agent Surprises

Looking ahead, several potential surprises could unfold in the market for these players:

• Quenton Nelson’s Free Agency: While it’s unlikely that the Colts will let Nelson walk, the sheer amount of interest he will receive from other teams could be staggering. A team with cap space may offer him a record-breaking contract that forces the Colts to make difficult decisions about their future.
• Ryan Kelly’s Bounce Back: Despite his injury concerns, Kelly could surprise some teams by returning to form as one of the best centers in the NFL. Teams in need of an experienced anchor for their offensive line may see Kelly as a risk worth taking.
• Matt Pryor’s Versatility: Pryor may not be a headline name, but his ability to play multiple positions along the line could make him a surprising commodity. Teams who need depth and competition at tackle could find him valuable.
• Dennis Kelly’s Consistent Role: Dennis Kelly is often underrated, but his consistent play as a backup or spot starter could make him a crucial signing for a team looking for depth at tackle. His reliability could make him a surprise contributor in the right system.

As the NFL offseason approaches, the Indianapolis Colts’ free agent offensive linemen will be at the center of many discussions. Players like Quenton Nelson, Ryan Kelly, Matt Pryor, and Dennis Kelly each bring a unique skill set to the table and have the potential to surprise on the open market. Whether it’s the elite talent of Nelson or the versatility and depth offered by Pryor and Kelly, the Colts have several free agents who will attract attention and possibly exceed expectations.

The surprising aspect of this group lies in the potential value these players could offer teams in need of offensive line help. While some may have been overlooked in the past, the market dynamics, cap space, and demand for quality offensive line play could make this group one of the most sought-after in free agency.

For the Colts, this could mark the beginning of a significant shift in the makeup of their offensive line. The decisions they make regarding these free agents will shape their offensive identity for years to come, with the potential for a rebuild or a retooling of the front line to ensure future success.