The Indianapolis Colts (4-5) had an active offseason, with multiple impactful free agency signings.
Who was the best signing from the group, and who was their worst?
Matt Gay was worth every penny
— Destin Adams (@TheDestinAdams) November 5, 2023
This seems like a tweet I should just schedule to post each week mid game.
Taven Bryan #Colts one year, $3.51M ($3M gtd), salary $3M (gtd), $30K per game active roster bonus, $1M sacks incentive
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 16, 2023
The truth is the Colts haven't honestly had a "bad" free agency signing from their 2023 group. Taven Bryan has been productive as a rotational pass rusher from the inside. His recent play in the run game shines a negative light on him, though, as he's been tasked to fill the massive hole left with Grover Stewart's suspension.
The Colts knew the run game was a weakness in Bryan's game when they signed him, so it's hard to blame him for his struggles in that spot. But it is a player's job to capitalize on the opportunities they are given when their number is called, and so far, Bryan has failed as the team's starting NT.
Matt Gay makes history. pic.twitter.com/16c4RNohXC
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) September 24, 2023
The Colts typically shy away from the first wave of free agency, but they made an exception to target kicker Matt Gay. They signed Gay to the largest free-agency kicker contract in NFL history with a 4-year, 22.5 million dollar contract. At the time, many ridiculed GM Chris Ballard for finally spending big money in free agency, but for a kicker.
Since then, Gay has earned every penny with his impeccable play in 2023. He has made 16 of his 18 total field goal attempts and six of his seven from 50+. Having a reliable kicker is something every team wishes they had, and for the Colts, it's a reality, thanks to their decision to sign Matt Gay.
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