NFL analyst recommends Colts sign former Pro Bowler in free agency
NFL analyst recommends Colts sign former Pro Bowler in free agency
For the second season in a row, the Indianapolis Colts will enter training camp relying on a young secondary to develop beyond expectations.
With less than a month to go until the Colts report for training camp at the Grand Park Sports Complex in Westfield on July 24, they have plenty of salary-cap space to make one final addition.
While the front office may be confident in the growth of the young secondary, it doesn't mean others shouldn't feel comfortable with it.
That's why Lorenzo Reyna of Pro Football Network recommended the Colts look into signing Patrick Peterson, the eight-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro selection at cornerback.
"A capable veteran next to Kenny Moore III is still useful for a team looking to snatch the AFC South from the Texans. While old pal Stephon Gilmore is out there, Patrick Peterson is equally enticing as a potential safety option too," Reyna wrote.
Peterson's days of providing single coverage on an island at an All-Pro level are behind him. However, the 34-year-old has been solid in recent seasons, and he's added more versatility to his bag.
In 2023, Peterson lined up all over the secondary in Pittsburgh, logging snaps mostly at cornerback but seeing equal work in the slot and at free safety — each about a quarter of the time.
Though he allowed five touchdowns, he also allowed a solid 88.8 passer rating and 53.2% completion rate when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus. He also thrived in zone coverage, allowing a ridiculous 23.6 passer rating on 24 targets.
The Colts are running it back with Moore and second-year cornerback Julius Brents, but adding a veteran like Peterson would only fortify the unit.