The Colts’ Interior Defensive Line Needs
For as long as Chris Ballard has been the general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, one of his most persistent challenges has been building depth on the interior defensive line. Despite having a formidable duo in DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, who are among the best at their positions in the NFL, the Colts have found it difficult to maintain a strong bench. This lack of depth has often left the team vulnerable, especially when key players are sidelined due to injuries or fatigue. With the arrival of new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, there is now a glimmer of hope that this issue might finally be addressed effectively.
B.J. Hill: A Familiar Face in Free Agency
One potential solution to this depth problem is the addition of B.J. Hill, a former Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle who has a close relationship with the new defensive coordinator. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report highlighted Hill as a logical fit for the Colts in free agency. Hill, who will be 30 years old in April, missed significant time last season due to a hamstring injury but managed to return and finish the season with the Bengals. When healthy, Hill has proven to be a highly impactful interior defender, making him a valuable asset to any team looking to strengthen their defensive line.
Hill’s Impact in Anarumo’s Scheme
During his four seasons under Anarumo’s tutelage in Cincinnati, Hill appeared in 64 games, starting 50 of them. His statistics during this period are impressive: 16 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, and 53 quarterback hits. These numbers demonstrate his ability to make meaningful contributions as both a pass rusher and a run stopper. Anarumo’s familiarity with Hill’s skills and playing style could be a significant advantage, as it would likely shorten the learning curve and ensure a smoother transition for the veteran player to the Colts’ defensive system.
Financial Considerations and Market Projections
Hill is coming off a three-year, $30 million contract with the Bengals, but his market value has been adjusted downward due to his recent injury. According to Spotrac, a financial data and analytics site, Hill is projected to sign a deal in the range of two years and $18 million in the upcoming free agency. This projection makes Hill a budget-friendly alternative for the Colts, who might be looking to allocate their financial resources to other areas of need as well. Adding a player of Hill’s caliber at a reasonable price would provide a significant boost to the defensive line and offer the team more flexibility in other negotiations.
Prioritizing Defensive Line Depth
While the Colts have more pressing needs to address, such as safety and cornerback depth, it is never a bad idea to bolster the defensive line. The health and sustainability of any defensive line are crucial, and having quality reserves can make a substantial difference in the team’s performance, especially during long, grueling NFL seasons. Hill’s experience and track record of success make him an attractive option to solidify the Colts’ interior defensive line, ensuring that the team can maintain its defensive integrity even when starters are out of action.
Looking Forward to a Stronger Defense
The potential addition of B.J. Hill to the Colts’ roster, alongside other strategic moves, could signal a shift toward a more robust and versatile defense under Lou Anarumo’s leadership. His familiarity with the defensive coordinator and his proven ability to perform at a high level when healthy are compelling reasons for the Colts to consider him seriously. As the team continues to reshape its roster, focusing on key areas like defensive line depth will be essential to maintaining a competitive edge in the NFL. With the right moves, the Colts could field a defense that is both formidable and resilient, setting the stage for a successful future.
