Wave two Cornerback free-agent targets for the Colts

The Indianapolis Colts stayed fairly quiet during last week's first wave of NFL free agency.

But now we head into wave two, an area where the Chris Ballard-led Colts typically thrive.

So, I will be sharing the best players still available at positions I believe the Colts are still in need of a move ahead of the 2024 season. 

This article will focus on the best available free agents that fit the Colts' need at corner.

Best CB free agent options: 

Xavien Howard, Miami Dolphins

If the Colts decide to use free agency to target their need at CB, my personal favorite option is Xavien Howard. Howard hasn't looked like the same dominant player of the past two seasons compared to his elite seasons in 2018 and 2020. But his ability in the zone should interest the Colts, who utilize that coverage the most in the NFL. Howard will turn 31 this summer, so he likely isn't a long-term starter option, but he could be an impactful starter for the next couple of seasons. 

Steven Nelson, Houston Texans

Steven Nelson is a CB I've wanted on the Colts for a while now, ever since he hit free agency in 2021 and he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, and he has spent the last two seasons in the AFC South with the Houston Texans. While many wouldn't be overly excited by a player of Nelson's caliber being the Colts big move at CB, but I think it could be a smart move (if they use free agency). Nelson is a reliable CB who you likely would prefer to be your CB 2, but while the Colts' young outside CBs develop, I think he can fill their need nicely. 

Ahkello Witherspoon, Los Angeles Rams

While the other two options in this article are 30+, Ahkello Witherspoon would provide the Colts with a player just younger at 29. In my opinion, he's coming off his best year as a pro, with three interceptions (tied for a career-high) and 14 pass deflections (a career-high). Like Nelson, I know many fans wouldn't be jumping for joy at the thought of Witherspoon being their big move at CB this offseason, but again, I think he would be a reliable starter for the Colts as a short-term starter while they allow their youth in the CB room to develop.