The Indianapolis Colts drafted defensive end Ben Banogu in the second round (49th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft. With such a high pick, Banogu was expected to be an important addition in Indy and bring efficiency to the pass rush out of Texas Christian University.
However, this panned out not only against what the Colts expected but in true draft-bust fashion. Through four seasons in Indianapolis, Banogu played in 50 games, collecting only 2.5 sacks, 29 tackles, and 6 quarterback hits.
For a second-round pick, these aren’t impressive numbers.
After deciding not to re-sign the veteran defensive end this offseason, the Colts allowed Banogu to fall into the free-agent market for other squads to take a chance on.
Well, it looks like Banogu will get another shot to succeed.
Dallas Morning News reporter Michael Gehlken broke the news that the Dallas Cowboys are expected to sign Banogu, bringing him back to the state where he was a fantastic player in college with the Horned Frogs.
This is a welcome piece of news to see Banogu get another chance to shine.
While he didn’t pan out for the Colts, there is always a chance that a player who didn’t live up to expectations can do so elsewhere in another defense.
The Cowboys like their pass-rushers, and this adds depth to the team. As it’s been said by Colts general manager Chris Ballard, “You can never have enough pass rushers.” The Cowboys were listening and took this advice to heart.
Will Banogu get to hit the field and fight for playing time? Time will tell. He was drafted for his athleticism and upside in 2019, and maybe this was the change of scenery he needed to find it after all.
More must-reads: