The Indianapolis Colts Hope Their Veterans Can Make Their Defense A Top 10 Unit In 2019.
My series covering every NFL team continues with this article taking a look at the Indianapolis Colts. I will be identifying players that I would consider adding ahead of the 2019 season. Also included will be my recommendations on what it might take to acquire these players.
Margus Hunt, Defensive Tackle:
Margus Hunt, 31, became a full time starter for the fist time in his career last season. He started 15 of 16 games and finished with 22 solo tackles, 13 tackle for loss, six quarterback hits, and five sacks. All of which were career highs for Hunt. Since joining the colts defense in 2017, Hunt has seen his yearly production increase each season. Even though he’s older, by IDP standards, I don’t see his production slipping in the upcoming season. Due to his age and his late start in becoming a starter I think he makes a great buy-low candidate.
Fantasy Recommendation:
There is a good chance he is available on your waiver wire, if not, it shouldn’t cost you more than a late round pick to add him. I think the new additions on defense will only help his production next season.
Honorable Mention: Tyquan Lewis, Defensive End.
Justin Houston, Linebacker:
Justin Houston, 30, signed a 2 year $24 million contract, this off-season, with the Indianapolis Colts, after spending his entire career in Kansas City. Last season, he finished the season with 28 solo tackles, eight tackles for loss, 12 quarterback hits, and nine sacks over 12 starts. All of which were down from the year before. Even though Houston has battled injuries, the last few seasons, he still has been a productive player, racking up 18.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Justin should be a huge upgrade to the colts pass rush and is a great buy-low for me.
Fantasy Recommendation:
Due to Justin Houston still carrying name value he’s going to cost a little bit more to acquire. However, I think he could be had for a mid round pick. Even if he’s depth for you and or a bye week starter these are the types of players I’d love to have.
Honorable Mention: Anthony Walker, Linebacker.
Pierre Desir, Cornerback:
Pierre Desir, 28, started the most games in his career, 12, last season with the Colts. He ended with a stat line of 60 solo tackles and two tackles for loss, both being career highs. Due to how the teams in the AFC South run and throw the ball, I think this gives Desir, and everyone in that secondary, a chance to produce in 2019. I think Pierre will be a 16 games starter and set new career highs in 2019.
Fantasy Recommendation:
Pierre is someone that I’m targeting as an under the radar starter for next season. There is a decent chance he is owned, but shouldn’t cost you more than a late round pick to add to your roster.
Honorable Mention: Malik Hooker, Safety.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Colts will be relying on their vets to help continue the improvement of this defense, hopefully into the top 10. If these players can stay healthy then I like their chances of being solid contributors next season. Ranking these buy-lows in order of priority, it would be Justin Houston, Pierre Desir, and Margus Hunt. Hopefully, you find these recommendations helpful in your quest to build that championship roster for 2019. Please keep an eye out for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
