The Indianapolis Colts have been primarily focused on re-signing their own free agents, leading to some impatience among fans waiting for them to make an external acquisition. However, they have now made their first rumored signing from outside the organization, bringing in Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Raekwon Davis.
The Indianapolis Colts’ decision to sign Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Raekwon Davis as their first external free agent may raise eyebrows initially, but there’s a strategic rationale behind it. Last season, when starting DT Grover Stewart was sidelined due to a suspension, the Colts’ lack of depth at the position became evident and posed a significant vulnerability.
Although the Colts wisely re-signed Stewart to a new three-year contract, the potential risk of him missing games remains. To address this concern, the Colts moved to sign Davis to a two-year deal, positioning him as the primary backup behind Stewart.
Davis, a product of Alabama drafted by the Dolphins in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, brings considerable experience to the role. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, he has started 48 of his 63 games over the past four seasons, albeit with reduced starts in the most recent season due to the Dolphins’ crowded interior defensive line rotation.
Raekwon Davis’ NFL statistics:
– 2020: 40 total tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 QB hit
– 2021: 28 total tackles, 0.5 sacks, 1 tackle for loss, 1 QB hit
– 2022: 33 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, 2 QB hits
– 2023: 28 total tackles, 0.5 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, 6 QB hits
Davis’ remarkable increase to six QB hits last season marked a significant departure from his previous performance, indicating his ability to influence both the passing and rushing aspects of the game despite his role as a nose tackle. At 26 years old, his performance last year underscored the potential observed in him when he was drafted in the second round in 2020. The Indianapolis Colts evidently recognize this potential, evidenced by their decision to offer him a two-year, $14 million contract, a substantially larger deal than initially anticipated. Below is a detailed breakdown of the complete terms of Davis’ contract with the Colts.
Davis is set to assume the role of backup nose tackle behind Stewart for the Colts during training camp. While he may not start, his consistent performance last season suggests he will have a significant role to play. Last season, Stewart’s backup, Taven Bryan, averaged approximately 22 snaps per game prior to Stewart’s suspension. Given the contract Davis has secured, it’s reasonable to speculate that the Colts may intend to increase his playing time compared to Bryan last year. This decision could help ensure Stewart remains well-rested throughout games. Additionally, there may be opportunities for both Davis and Stewart to play together in situations where run-stopping is crucial, potentially allowing the Colts to keep star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner fresh as well.
