The Dallas Cowboys made headlines this weekend by releasing veteran linebacker Logan Wilson. This move has sparked curiosity about whether the Indianapolis Colts might be interested, especially given Wilson's history with their defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo.
Wilson, originally drafted in the third round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020, played under Anarumo from 2020 to 2024. During his time in Cincinnati, Wilson made 58 starts and became a key component of their defense.
This past season, after starting seven games for the Bengals, Wilson was traded to the Cowboys for a 2026 seventh-round draft pick. Now at 29, he enters free agency as a seasoned linebacker, likely to attract attention from teams in need of veteran leadership.
Over his career, Wilson has played in 83 games, starting 66 of them. His stats are impressive: 565 tackles (330 solo), 19 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 11 interceptions, 26 passes defensed, 7 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. These numbers highlight his versatility and playmaking ability on the field.
Despite Wilson's connection with Anarumo, Colts GM Chris Ballard has emphasized a need for the team to become younger and faster on defense. This focus on youth and speed might not align with bringing in a veteran like Wilson, who, while experienced, doesn't fit the mold of the Colts' current defensive strategy.
Comparisons can be drawn to another former Bengals linebacker, Germaine Pratt, who joined the Colts as a temporary solution last season. Pratt performed admirably, but the team's direction suggests they might be looking for more long-term options.
While Wilson's familiarity with Anarumo can't be ignored, it would seem to go against Ballard's stated goals for the Colts' defensive upgrades this offseason. Still, in the world of the NFL, surprises are always possible, and Wilson's next move will be one to watch.