The Jacksonville Jaguars turned heads last season under the guidance of Liam Coen, finishing with an impressive 13-4 record and clinching the AFC South title. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts wrapped up their campaign at 8-9, faltering towards the end.
The Colts have been keeping a close eye on quarterback Daniel Jones, whose recovery from a torn Achilles is reportedly going well, setting him up for a return early in the season. On the defensive side, DeForest Buckner, a key player, was sidelined after a herniated disc in his neck cut his season short, limiting him to just 10 games.
Depth on the defensive line is a priority for the Colts, and they might just find some help from an unexpected source - their division rivals, the Jaguars. Rumors are swirling that Jacksonville's Arik Armstead could be on the chopping block.
Despite his consistent performance over the years, Armstead is seen as a potential cap casualty for the Jaguars. Cutting him could free up nearly $15 million, funds that could be redirected to strengthen other areas of their roster before training camp. At 33 years old this November, Armstead's longevity in the league is notable, but the Jaguars might decide that his veteran presence is a luxury they can't afford if his performance dips after a standout pass-rushing season.
For the Colts, Armstead's potential availability is a tantalizing prospect. If Jacksonville does decide to part ways with him, Indianapolis should be ready to make their move.
Armstead's release would save the Jaguars $14.485 million - a significant amount at this stage of the offseason. With players like DaVon Hamilton and second-round pick Ruke Orhorhoro already in their ranks, the Jaguars might feel they can afford to let Armstead go.
Adding Armstead would be a boon for the Colts, especially with Buckner working his way back from injury. Last season, Armstead played in 16 games, starting 11, and recorded 28 tackles, seven tackles for loss, eight quarterback hits, and 5.5 sacks. His ability to pressure the quarterback was evident with 48 total pressures and 39 hurries, proving he can be a disruptive force from the interior.
While not the top-tier run defender, Armstead's knack for clogging lanes and using his leverage effectively makes him a valuable asset. With 11 years in the league, he's amassed 359 total tackles, 53 tackles for loss, and 41 sacks, having played for both the 49ers and Jaguars. His experience with playoff teams adds another layer of appeal, making him a potentially strong veteran presence in the Colts' locker room.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Jaguars' decision regarding Armstead. Should they decide to release him, the Colts would be wise to seize the opportunity to bolster their defensive front with his experience and skill set.
In Other News...
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For Indianapolis, the timing matters because the defense may already have its next answers on the roster. CJ Allen and Bryce Boettcher were brought in as recent draft picks who could eventually give the Colts more range and better tackling at inside linebacker, with Boettcher drawing attention for his coverage work at Oregon. Whether that means a cleaner fit in 2026 and beyond is part of the intrigue, especially as Franklins future has already taken him elsewhere. [Read more 🡒]
Colts Rumor Could Force A Much Bigger Offensive Decision
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That is why a recent rumor has drawn attention well beyond the wideout room. A Bleacher Report piece linked the Colts to a possible move for a San Francisco pass catcher, but the larger issue may be what it would cost and whether Indianapolis wants to make its biggest offensive decision around quarterback value instead of just adding help at receiver. If that route feels too steep, veteran names such as Keenan Allen or Deebo Samuel could still be part of the conversation as the Colts look for a more practical fix. [Read more 🡒]
Charvarius Ward Sends Colts Fans A Warning About The Sauce Duo
The Colts are headed into the new season with one of the leagues most intriguing cornerback pairings, and the appeal is obvious. Charvarius Ward and Sauce Gardner bring the kind of rsum that gives a defense real credibility, with both players carrying All-Pro and Pro Bowl recognition, and Indianapolis is expecting them to spend far more time on the field together after last years brief overlap.
Wards message to Colts fans is less about hype than timing. He has stressed that the pairing only showed a glimpse of what it can become because injury interrupted the partnership so early, and the real test now is whether the two can build the continuity needed to make the defense look the way the Colts envisioned when they put this duo together. [Read more 🡒]