The Indianapolis Colts struggled to contain opposing running backs last season, and help in the middle of the defensive line was a high priority for the team coming into the offseason.
The Colts got off to a good start in addressing the run defense, re-signing stud defensive tackle Grover Stewart to a long-term extension. But the problem was the depth behind Stewart, as Indy gave up almost 40 yards more per game when #90 did not play.
But now it seems reinforcements behind Stewart are on the way.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Colts are signing former Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Raekwon Davis. The deal is reportedly for two years at a $14 million base value.
"Former Dolphins DT Raekwon Davis is signing a 2-year $14 million base value deal with the Colts, per agent Trevon Smith of Athletes First," Schefter wrote on X.
Davis was a second-round pick of the Dolphins in the 2020 NFL Draft. At 6-7 and 325 pounds, Davis played nose tackle as a run stuffer in the middle of the Dolphins defensive line. While Davis was a starter on the Dolphins' defense his first three years in the league, he took on a reserve role last season.
Over four years and 63 games (48 starts), Davis racked up 129 tackles, five tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, and 10 QB hits. In 2023, Davis totaled 28 tackles, two tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, and six quarterback hits.
Davis provides quality depth in the middle of the Colts defensive line at the nose tackle position. Indy desperately needed a run-stuffing defensive tackle behind Stewart. The duo of Taven Bryan and Eric Johnson II did not cut it.
The Colts hope the signing of Davis can help boost their run defense when Stewart needs a breather. At the very least, Davis provides a massive presence in the middle to eat up double teams and allow others on the defensive line to attack the opposing running backs.
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