Our NFL Wire editors chose one free agent that each team “should want to sign.” For the Indianapolis Colts, I thought the decision was an easy one: safety Jevon Holland.
It’s been reported by NFL Network that the Miami Dolphins don’t plan to use the franchise tag on Holland, so he will hit the open market.
A former second-round selection, Holland is still not 25 years old after completing his first four NFL seasons. Throughout his career, he’s steadily graded out as a good run defender and a sound tackler by PFF’s metrics.
In coverage, he’s allowed a career completion rate of 67%, which includes two seasons below 61%, and 12.5 yards per catch, along with six interceptions and 16 pass breakups.
Safety is obviously a big position of need for the Colts. At the bare minimum, depth is needed with only Nick Cross, Rodney Thomas, Daniel Scott, and Marcel Dabo under contract in 2025.
In addition to that, and more importantly, improved play on the back end is needed. Last season, the Colts’ secondary as a whole ranked in the bottom 10 of the NFL in passer rating, pass deflections, yards per pass attempt, and completion rate.
However, another part of the equation is that in new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s scheme, where versatility and the ability to disguise coverages is at a premium, a lot is put on the plate of the safety. So having a reliable and experienced presence on the back end–like Holland can provide– to quarterback things becomes even more valuable.
Now, with all that said, the question that we answered was who “should” the Colts sign. This, of course, doesn’t mean they will.
With Holland’s age, experience, and past production, he’s going to command a hefty contract. For what it’s worth, Pro Football Focus is currently projecting that Holland lands a four-year deal worth $98 million.
Although GM Chris Ballard spent hardly anything last offseason when it came to outside free agent additions, we’ve seen him make a splash before, and if there’s a position to do that at this offseason, it’s safety.