The Indianapolis Colts may not be done adding pieces before training camp settles into its final shape. Even after the roster starts taking form, general manager Chris Ballard could still make a move or two, and one name now in the mix is safety Jordan Whitehead.
Whitehead, a former starter for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets, has not played since 2024 after undergoing neck surgery. According to NFL insider Mike Garafolo, he has been cleared to play.
There’s a growing sense that Whitehead won’t cost much, which is part of why several teams are reportedly checking in. Indianapolis recently brought him in for a visit, and the Houston Texans are also on his list of upcoming visits, along with other teams.
At his best, Whitehead brings dependable coverage and reliable tackling from the secondary. In seven seasons, he has allowed more than three touchdowns in only one of them.
Over two of his three most recent seasons, his missed tackle rate sat at 8.2 percent or lower. He became a full-time starter in 2019 and has stayed in that role whenever he’s been on the field since.
Age isn’t working against him, either. He’s 29, and if the neck issue is truly behind him, there should still be several seasons left in the tank.
The fit in Indianapolis is the part that raises the most questions. A starting job doesn’t appear to be waiting for him.
Cam Bynum is set to be one safety, while rookie A.J. Haulcy is trending toward a first-year starting role.
That leaves the possibility that defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is looking to use more three-safety looks. The league has been leaning that way, and Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has used three safeties frequently to create disguise and flexibility. That could be the pitch Ballard is making to Whitehead.
If not, Whitehead may choose a spot where the path to playing time is clearer. Houston may not offer that, either, since the Texans’ starters appear to be in place. If the money is close, the decision could come down to where he believes he can matter most.
That would especially be true if he signs a one-year deal. Whitehead would likely want a chance to get on the field and set himself up for a stronger next contract. If he ends up in Indianapolis, he could be competing with Hunter Wohler for backup snaps.
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