The Indianapolis Colts have a few key players ready to face free agency this offseason, including one in the midst of a breakout season.
While the Colts defense has been hit or miss for the most of the 2024 season, edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo has delivered another strong performance.
Though his 3.0 sacks this season suggest otherwise, the former second-round pick leads the club in total pressures (36), as well as quarterback hits (13), according to Pro Football Focus.
The Colts would benefit by re-signing Odeyingbo, but Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder believes he could end up in the NFC North with the Chicago Bears next offseason.
“Finding a second edge-rusher to pair with Montez Sweat has been an issue in Chicago since last season, and the addition of Darrell Taylor this summer has left something to be desired,” Holder told reporters. “Odeyingbo could be a good under-the-radar free-agent acquisition, having recorded 16.5 career sacks in 57 games with only 15 starts, including eight in 17 games and one start last season. While his sack total has decreased this season, he remains a decently productive pass-rusher, with 35 total pressures through Week 14, according to PFF.
While rookie Laiatu Latu has made a strong start for the Colts, Odeyingbo remains a key member of the defensive line.
With former first-round pick Kwity Paye struggling to make an impact in his fourth season, the Colts cannot afford to let Odeyingbo go.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the Vanderbilt product, but if he enters the free agent market this offseason, he could have a lot of options.
