Breaking: Colts In Talks To Sign $18.4 million Free Agent Starting Safety

Could Julian Blackmon, the starter, return at safety to support the Colts secondary’s back end after all?

The Indianapolis Colts have reportedly re-engaged starting free agent safety Julian Blackmon in contract negotiations, according to ESPN’s Stephen Holder:

“Chris Ballard made a strong indication that roster changes would occur, especially in the secondary,” according to Holder. After making trips to the Bills and 49ers in the previous week, safety Julian Blackmon, the Colts’ third-round selection in 2020, is still available. Next month, the Colts will probably use their 15th overall first-round draft pick to examine a cornerback.

Though he didn’t sign a contract with either returning playoff club, Blackmon has experienced increased interest in his free agent market recently after a slow start. He has visited with both the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers recently.

In addition, he would be the only projected starter in the Colts’ 2024 free agency class that the team has not yet re-signed, along with Grover Stewart, Michael Pittman Jr., Rigoberto Sanchez, and Kenny Moore II. This is a little unusual considering how highly general manager Chris Ballard has valued his other internal free agent starters (*to the tune of over $200 million).

Maybe there’s a direct sign that Blackmon thinks his contract value is higher than what the market actually thinks it is at the moment. There’s some sincere interest, but not enough that a prospective suitor has fulfilled his contract requirements to sign a deal as of yet.

What is certain is that the Colts could use his assistance in the upcoming season and would probably welcome his return (*assuming the correct price is offered). However, Indianapolis is testing the waters with other safety alternatives, such as veteran Kareem Jackson, who was brought in on Wednesday for a free agent visit.