The Indianapolis Colts have had one of the most quiet offseasons of any NFL team, but a new report claims general manager Chris Ballard made a concerted effort to sign free agent Danielle Hunter.
Ballard’s offseason approach was covered by ESPN Colts insider Stephen Holder in a piece that was released on Tuesday, March 26.
Holder stated in the report that Hunter had received a higher offer from the Colts during his free agency, but he had chosen to accept a lower deal to play for the Houston Texans.
Holder stated, “According to a team source, the Colts aggressively pursued Vikings free agent pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, even offering him more money than the Houston Texans — a two-year, $49 million ($48 million guaranteed) deal — ultimately gave him.”
But before they took advantage of other options, thColts had some decisions to make on their own free agents following that fruitless chase and after weighing other possie ble actions.
It hurts to lose out on a top free agent, but Ballard will be especially hurt if he lets a divisional rival get a player like Hunter.
Danielle Hunter Probably Desired to Return Home
In free agency, money isn’t always the most crucial factor, and Hunter appears to understand this.
Hunter chose to sign a nearly completely guaranteed contract with the Houston Rockets instead of accepting a higher salary offer from the Colts.
In addition to receiving guaranteed money, Hunter may end up earning more with the Texans than what Indianapolis offered due to the state income tax exemption in Texas.
In addition, Hunter was raised in Katy, Texas, just west of Houston, and he went to Morton Ranch High School there. Hunter’s potential to return home was probably a consideration during his free agency.
Following his signing with the Texans, Hunter stated, “It means a lot.” Being able to perform in front of my family and all the folks I grew up with is an honor.
They’ve been rather thrilled about the news lately, I know that. They will at last be able to watch me play at a game.In high school, Hunter was a 4-star prospect.
Despite receiving offers from in-state schools like Texas Tech and Houston, he finally made the decision to play for the LSU Tigers out of state.
The Minnesota Vikings selected Hunter in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft, following his successful collegiate career. Throughout his nine great seasons with the organization, he was selected to the second team of the 2018 Pro Bowl and was a four-time Pro Bowler.
Now, when he returns home, Hunter is excited about the next phase of his career.
Joe Flacco Makes the Colts’ Free Agency Period Stand Out
The Colts haven’t pursued other elite free agents as much in favor of re-signing their own players.
Only two outside free agents have been signed, with veteran quarterback Joe Flacco standing out among them.
Flacco and the Colts agreed to a one-year contract for up to $8.7 million.
The 39-year-old will most likely start for the team as the backup quarterback, but he could be prepared to step in as Anthony Richardson, the starting quarterback, recovers from a shoulder injury that ended his season.
Raekwon Davis, a former defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins, is the Colts’ only other noteworthy free agent acquisition.
With an eye toward making an impact in the trenches with players like Grover Stewart and DeForest Buckner, he inked a two-year contract for up to $14 million.
