Kwity Paye's Free Agency: Colts' Edge Rusher's Future Uncertain

0:00On March 1, Indianapolis Colts' defensive end-quiety paya is heading into free agency as one of the top rushers available. The 27-year-old has 30-and-a-half sacks across 74 starts since entering the league. Drafted 21st overall in 2021, he's built a solid career but hasn't quite become the elite past rusher many expected. Pay shines most in run defense, consistently setting the edge and holding strong against the run. While reliable as a starter, his overall impact falls short of that first round promise. His former teammate, Dio O'Dangbo, also from the 2021 class, landed a $38 million deal with the Chicago Bears. Last year, showing what might be possible for edge players like him. Colts fans and analysts wonder if the team will let him walk. General manager Chris Ballad wants a younger, faster front 7 next season. With priorities like quarterback Dio Jones and why receiver Alec Pierce, also hitting free agency, plus veterans Samson Ibuqam and Taekwain Lewis.

1:02Decisions loom large for the defense. Projections from spot rack peg pay for a 3-year, $53.6 million contract elsewhere. The Colts sit at about $33.2 million in cap space, with rune to maneuver by restructuring deals like wide-out Michael Pittman, Jr.'s hefty hit.