Another crucial piece fell into place for the Indianapolis Colts as they used free agency to address their defensive backfield, agreeing to terms with safety LaRon Landry.
A former sixth overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Landry brings a physical presence to the Colts’ secondary that some might even say borders on being too physical at times. This is the same player who forced Buffalo’s Fred Jackson out of a regular-season game with a hard shot to the leg, and also put a hard hit on Miami’s Reggie Bush.
But it’s hard to argue with his recent body of work, which includes 15 of 16 regular season starts, 76 tackles, two interceptions and four forced fumbles. He was also an AFC starter in the 2013 Pro Bowl.
The addition of Landry means the Colts have effectively completed a total revamp of their secondary. Together with two-time Pro Bowl safety Antoine Bethea, cornerback Vontae Davis and the recently signed Greg Toler, they have injected much needed talent into a defense that ranked near the bottom of the league in 2012.
Agent Joel Segal confirmed the deal was for a 4-year contract, but stopped short of revealing the financial terms. Several media outlets have reported the deal averages $24 million over 4 years, with $14 million guaranteed.
Whether the Colts overpaid remains to be seen. When healthy, he is a force to be reckoned with. But can he stay healthy? He certainly proved so in 2012-13. Prior to that, however, he missed 15 games from 2009-10. The Colts are no stranger to injury-prone, star safeties. Does the name Bob Sanders ring a bell? Hence, the importance of depth not only at safety, but every position.
Overall, this has the appearance of a good signing. Good Job Colts.
