Improving the Linebacking Core

With Gary Brackett not receiving the franchise tag from the Colts, he is set to hit the open market. It is clear the Colts would like to keep Brackett, but at what price? This free agency class is severely hindered, because of the ongoing CBA discussions and it looks as if most of the big names will be restricted. However, along with Brackett, Karlos Dansby is another veteran linebacker who has proven himself in this league, and both are set to become unrestricted free agents. The Arizona Republic reported that the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and the New York Giants are amongst the teams rumored to be interested in acquiring the Cardinals’ veteran linebacker. Dansby would greatly upgrade this linebacking core, and if the Colts can bring Brackett back as well, this group will take a giant step in the right direction. 

However, it seems unlikely that the Colts would be willing to pay not only Brackett, but Dansby as well. Dansby is said to be looking for a contract in the $30 million range, which would be quiet an investment, especially paired up with the money Brackett is looking for. Out of the two it would seem more logical for the Colts to bring back Brackett, not only because he will demand less money, but also because he is a leader on this team and has proven himself in this Colts defense. Putting money aside I believe the addition of Dansby paired with the resigning of Brackett would do wonders for this team. However, there are also questions about where Dansby would play and how he would fit into this defense. With Arizona, Dansby played inside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme, a scheme much different from that of the Colts’ traditional 4-3. So if he were to come to Indianapolis Dansby may have to play on the outside, a position that he has played in the past, just not in the last few seasons. 

At the end of the day I do not believe that the Colts will sign both of these linebackers, but it is fun to think about. However, pending the Colts ability to resign Brackett, they may look to sign Dansby in order to replace, and upgrade, over the loss of Brackett. Neither player racks up sacks, but both are tackling machines, and in all honesty they are fairly similar players. Dansby is bigger and a bit younger, and he also has a bit of a better resume, but not by much. Thus, it does not seem likely the Colts will pursue both, but if they are looking for an upgrade, they might want to look into Dansby.