Indianapolis Colts 2025 Free Agency Tracker: Will Chris Ballard Make a Splash Signing?

As the 2025 NFL offseason kicks off, Indianapolis Colts fans are watching closely to see if general manager Chris Ballard, known for his methodical and sometimes conservative approach, will make any major moves in free agency. After years of prioritizing draft picks and building through the draft, Ballard’s strategy has led to a mix of successes and failures, leaving fans and analysts eager to see what direction the franchise will take as it enters the 2025 season.

With a cap space expected to be significant and some key roster areas in need of improvement, Ballard faces a critical offseason. The team’s performance in 2024, coupled with some key contract decisions looming on the horizon, will likely dictate how aggressive the Colts are in addressing their needs during free agency.

Colts’ 2025 Free Agency Approach: Ballard’s Reputation and Strategy

Chris Ballard has developed a reputation for taking a conservative approach to free agency, often opting for one-year deals with veterans rather than long-term commitments. The Colts have not been known for making “splash” signings in recent years, with the exception of a few notable moves like the acquisition of quarterback Matt Ryan in 2022. Ballard’s focus tends to be on drafting young talent and developing players through the system, a strategy that has created a mix of results for the Colts.

In 2025, however, the Colts find themselves in a unique position. The team has a stable core of young players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson, running back Jonathan Taylor, and cornerback Kenny Moore II. But there are still some glaring weaknesses on the roster, particularly at wide receiver, offensive line, and pass rusher, which could prompt Ballard to be more aggressive than usual in free agency.

But will Chris Ballard make a splash signing in 2025, or will he once again take a measured approach to the offseason? To answer that question, we’ll first examine the Colts’ needs, followed by some of the top potential free-agent targets.

Team Needs Heading into Free Agency

The Colts have a talented roster, but there are areas in need of improvement, particularly as the team looks to push forward with a new quarterback and improve their overall competitiveness. Below are the most pressing needs heading into the 2025 offseason.

1. Wide Receiver

One of the Colts’ biggest needs going into 2025 is at wide receiver. Despite having solid contributors like Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce, the team has lacked a true No. 1 receiver that can consistently stretch the field and make game-changing plays. Pittman is a solid possession receiver, but the Colts need someone who can take the top off the defense and help elevate the passing game.

Potential Targets:

• Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): With his size, speed, and ability to make contested catches, Evans could be the kind of game-changing receiver the Colts need. While Evans will be 31 in 2025, he remains one of the top wideouts in the league, and a potential reunion with quarterback Baker Mayfield could provide him with a new lease on life.
• Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders): Another possibility could be McLaurin, who is known for his ability to stretch the field and make big plays. He’s one of the most consistent receivers in the league despite playing on a less-than-ideal team.

2. Edge Rusher

The Colts need to continue improving their pass rush, which has been inconsistent in recent years. While DeForest Buckner and Kwity Paye have been solid contributors on the defensive line, the team lacks a true edge rusher who can consistently disrupt quarterbacks and get after the passer. Adding a dynamic pass rusher to complement the defensive line would greatly benefit the Colts’ defense, particularly in the AFC South, where teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans have explosive offenses.

Potential Targets:

• Jadeveon Clowney (Free Agent): A proven veteran pass rusher, Clowney has been a disruptive force in the league for several years. Though he hasn’t always lived up to his full potential, he can still be an effective pass rusher when paired with a strong supporting cast. Given his age and injury history, he may be a bargain on a one-year deal.
• Yannick Ngakoue (Free Agent): Ngakoue has been one of the most consistent pass rushers in the NFL over the last several seasons. With over 10 sacks in multiple seasons, his skill set fits what the Colts need to take their defense to the next level.

3. Offensive Line Depth

The Colts have a solid offensive line when healthy, but injuries have often plagued the group in recent years. Adding depth to the offensive line is crucial, especially given the Colts’ young quarterback, Anthony Richardson, and the need to protect their franchise signal-caller. The Colts should look to add a versatile offensive lineman who can step in at guard or tackle and provide reliable depth.

Potential Targets:

• Mike McGlinchey (San Francisco 49ers): McGlinchey is one of the top offensive tackles set to hit free agency, and he would immediately upgrade the Colts’ offensive line. Known for his run-blocking ability and solid pass protection, McGlinchey would give Anthony Richardson the security he needs in the pocket.
• Ben Powers (Baltimore Ravens): A versatile guard, Powers could provide an immediate upgrade to the interior of the Colts’ offensive line. His ability to open lanes in the running game would be a perfect fit alongside Jonathan Taylor.

4. Cornerback Depth

The Colts have a solid cornerback in Kenny Moore II, but they need more depth in the secondary to help improve their pass defense. In a pass-heavy league, having a deep and talented group of cornerbacks is essential to success. Adding a veteran cornerback could provide the team with the stability it needs to compete with some of the high-powered offenses in the AFC.

Potential Targets:

• James Bradberry (Philadelphia Eagles): Bradberry has been one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL for several years and could provide the Colts with the veteran leadership and coverage skills they need to shore up the secondary.
• Byron Jones (Miami Dolphins): After a down year in Miami, Jones could be available at a more reasonable price. If he can return to his pre-injury form, Jones would be a solid addition to the Colts’ secondary.

5. Tight End

While the Colts have some talent at the tight end position with players like Jelani Woods and Kylen Granson, the team could benefit from adding a veteran tight end who can serve as both a reliable pass catcher and an in-line blocker. Tight ends are key pieces in the Colts’ offense, especially with a young quarterback under center.

Potential Targets:

• Evan Engram (Jacksonville Jaguars): Engram has shown flashes of brilliance as a playmaking tight end, and his ability to stretch the field and create mismatches would make him a great fit for the Colts’ offense. While he’s had some inconsistencies, Engram’s playmaking ability is undeniable.
• Dalton Schultz (Dallas Cowboys): Schultz is a reliable target with great hands and blocking skills, making him a perfect fit for a team that likes to utilize tight ends in the passing game and as extra blockers in the running game.

Cap Space and the Colts’ Financial Situation

Heading into the 2025 offseason, the Indianapolis Colts are projected to have a significant amount of cap space. This puts them in an excellent position to make some impactful signings. While Ballard tends to be cautious with long-term contracts, the large cap space provides him with flexibility and room to make moves without immediately compromising the team’s future financial situation.

The key question will be whether Ballard uses this cap space to make a big move or prefers to sign several smaller contracts to fill out the roster.

Potential Free Agent Splash?

While Chris Ballard is known for his prudent approach to free agency, the 2025 offseason could be different. With the team’s need for talent at key positions like wide receiver, edge rusher, and offensive line, the Colts may need to make a splash in free agency to compete in a highly competitive AFC.

If Ballard decides to target high-profile free agents, expect the Colts to pursue a wide receiver who can immediately elevate their passing game and a veteran pass rusher who can help solidify the defense. Adding talent at these positions would give the Colts a fighting chance to contend for the AFC South title and compete in the postseason.

The 2025 Colts Free Agency Outlook

The 2025 free agency period promises to be an exciting one for Indianapolis Colts fans, who are eager to see how Chris Ballard approaches team building. With substantial cap space and a roster that is a few pieces away from being a true contender, this offseason could be the one where Ballard steps outside of his usual comfort zone and makes a splash in free agency.

While it’s unlikely the Colts will break the bank on any one player, the possibility of adding a key veteran at wide receiver, edge rusher, or offensive line cannot be ruled out. Whatever the case may be, the Colts are poised to make significant strides in 2025—whether it’s through a splash signing or a more measured approach.

Fans will be watching closely, hoping that Chris Ballard’s strategic approach to free agency will help put the Colts in a strong position for future success.