Colts' Nick Cross: Big Payday or Stay?

0:00On February 26th, the Indianapolis Colts face a big decision on free agent safety, Nick Cross, as free agency kicks off next month. Drafted in the third round, 96th overall back in 2022, Cross started as a project player, but has grown into a key part of the. Secondary was steady improvements each year. Meanwhile, the team already invested heavily in the defensive backfield last off-season, handing free safety Cameron-Binum a 4-year 60 million. $1.00 deal. Cornerbacks' Charvarius Ward and Sauce Gardener also carry hefty future cap hits, with Ward topping $20 million in 2026, and nearly $24.7 million in 2027, while Gardener's deal balloons later on. Fans and analysts see Cross's breakout as a win for the Colts' development, but it comes amid a push to rebuild the defensive front 7 after. Injuries sideline veteran DeForest Buckner late last season. Cross played his final rookie year on a $3.4 million base salary, counting just over $3.6 million against the cap.

1:05Market trends point to a big payday for Cross, who's ranked among the top free agent safeties by sites like NFL.com and the Athletic. Last year, five safeties landed deals over $10 million per year on average, with others above $8 million. Colts' General Manager Chris Ballard praised Cross's growth, and hinted finances could decide his future, comparing it to slicing up a limited pie, where. Another team might offer a bigger piece. Whatever happens, both sides seem set to part on good terms as the off-season unfolds.