Breaking: Colts Ready to Sign Lions $11 Million Cap Casualty as Dayo Odeyingbo Replacement

The Indianapolis Colts lost an edge rusher during free agency this offseason as defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo joined the Chicago Bears.

The Colts truly had no alternative in the situation. Ultimately, Odeyingbo was presented with an offer from the Bears that greatly surpassed what one would anticipate for an edge rusher following a three-sack season in 2024.

Following his exit, the Colts have not filled the void left by the former second-round choice, but fortunately, there are still good alternatives available in free agency.

One possibility is ex-Detroit Lions edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, who became a cap casualty this offseason. Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report believes the Colts will substitute Odeyingbo with Smith.

The Indianapolis Colts signed cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Camryn Bynum to strengthen their defensive lineup at the start of free agency. Nonetheless, they might require additional assistance on the edge following the loss of Dayo Odeyingbo to the Chicago Bears.

Za’Darius Smith ranks among the best edge-rushers currently on the market and would instantly make an impact in Indy. Although the Detroit Lions cut him loose early in the offseason, he had a strong performance during his half-season with the team. In his eight games with the Lions, he recorded four sacks, three tackles for loss, and 10 quarterback hits.

It was somewhat unexpected to witness the Lions let go of Smith. Admittedly, he is getting older, but Smith also recorded nine sacks last season and the Lions had a pressing need at the edge, even if he were to come back.

Lions general manager Brad Holmes later acknowledged that the team just couldn’t manage the approximately $11 million Smith was scheduled to earn.

Smith has consistently been an effective edge rusher, and as long as he doesn’t experience a significant decline, he would represent an improvement over Odeyingbo. Since 2018, Smith has recorded 5.5 sacks or more each year, except for the 2021 season when he played in only one game because of a back injury.

Smith is expected to secure a contract offering him approximately the $11 million he was scheduled to earn in Detroit. The Colts possess $21.8 million in salary cap space, making that a cost they can manage.