Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star reports that the Colts have informed DE Dwight Freeney and WR Austin Collie on Friday that they will not re-signed during the offseason.
“I was very surprised to hear they wanted to go in a different direction,” said Freeney in a text message sent to ESPN’s Ed Werder. “Would have been nice to retire a Colt.”
Both players are set to become unrestricted free agent in the next few weeks, but it’s really not surprising that the Colts are ready to move on.
Forcing Freeney to play outside linebacker in their new 3-4 base defense last year hurt his overall production. Freeney, 32, is a much better fit as a 4-3 defensive end and should be able to find some interest on the open market, but most likely at a reduced price.
The Seahawks have already been tossed as a speculative option by ESPN’s John Clayton.
As for Collie, he’s not only dealt with multiple concussions in recent year’s, but also suffered a ruptured right patella tendon this season. The guy could have been an impact player in the league had things gone differently. Given aforementioned concerns, it’s really hard to speculate as to what kind of interest he’ll find on the open market.
The Broncos could use a slot receiver, so there’s a chance he would end up playing with Peyton Manning again next season.
We have Freeney listed as the No. 49 best available player in our Top 50 Free Agents list.
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