The Indianapolis Colts’ defensive unit showed solid effort throughout the 2025 campaign, yet it fell short in generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The team finished with 39 sacks as a group, a respectable but not dominant total that highlighted areas needing improvement, particularly along the defensive line.
A closer look at the season reveals a sharp decline in production during the stretch run. In the final five weeks, the Colts managed only four sacks combined, underscoring how their pass rush fizzled when it mattered most. This lack of disruption allowed quarterbacks to settle into rhythms and exploit an already vulnerable secondary plagued by injuries.
Heading into the offseason, Indianapolis faces significant decisions on its defensive front. Three notable defensive ends—Kwity Paye, Samson Ebukam, and Tyquan Lewis—are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents. Reports suggest the team might allow some or all of them to depart, creating a clear opening for reinforcements to address the pass-rush deficiencies.
If the Colts opt not to retain these players, they appear positioned to pursue a high-impact addition through free agency or trade. One name generating substantial buzz is Cincinnati Bengals standout Trey Hendrickson, a proven disruptor who could transform the edge for Indianapolis.
NFL insider Cameron Wolfe recently discussed the situation with Ian Rapoport, shedding light on Hendrickson’s uncertain future in Cincinnati.
“From what I understand, a team source told me he figures it’s unlikely for these two sides to reunite going into next season,” Wolfe said. “So, what does that mean? Do the Bengals let him go in free agency? Do they try to slap the franchise tag on him and trade him? A difficult decision to Cinci because their relationship has not been great in recent weeks.”
Wolfe went on to highlight the Colts as a serious contender.
“And, I’m told if this deal does end up happening, free-agency wise, keep an eye on the Indianapolis Colts. It’s a team that wants to be aggressive; they made the big splash move for Sauce Gardner mid-season, Lou Anarumo has a lot of familiarity with Trey Hendrickson, they just hired a D-Line coach named Marion Hobby, who coached Trey Hendrickson in Cincinnati.”
The connections run deep and could prove pivotal.
“When they were all together, Lou, Marion, and Trey Hendrickson, they had 57 sacks in four seasons. Four Pro Bowl seasons. They’re gonna be aggressive in trying to get him if he does reach the market or if it’s a sign-and-trade. It could be a big splash move for the Indianapolis Colts.”
The Colts struggled late in 2025 precisely because they couldn’t consistently pressure the passer. Quarterbacks faced less heat, picking apart a banged-up secondary that struggled to contain elite receiving threats. Bolstering the defensive line would provide immediate relief and better protect the back end.
Hendrickson’s track record under coordinator Lou Anarumo makes him an especially intriguing fit. Anarumo played a key role in Hendrickson’s development in Cincinnati, turning him into a relentless edge threat. Hendrickson recorded 17.5 sacks in both 2023 and 2024.
In three of his four years under Anarumo, he reached at least 14 sacks. That level of output hasn’t been seen in Indianapolis since the era dominated by legends Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney.
Familiarity with the scheme stands out as a major advantage. Should the Colts commit significant resources to acquire Hendrickson, they could count on quick integration and sustained production without the typical adjustment period for a new system. His proven success in a similar setup minimizes risk in what would be a substantial investment.
Interest from Indianapolis in Hendrickson isn’t new. Last offseason, the team explored possibilities but ultimately held off. Nearly a full year of speculation has built around potential trade discussions or free-agent pursuit, keeping the connection alive.
Any transaction involving Hendrickson would carry a hefty price tag. With recent contracts like Myles Garrett’s at $45 million annually setting the benchmark for elite edge rushers, Hendrickson could command $35+ million per year on the open market.
For a Colts team eager to elevate its defense, such a move would represent a bold statement of intent ahead of the next season.
