"Reading the coverage" this morning pointed you to this Mike Chappell story about the load of Colts heading toward free agency in 2011.
But before anyone who likes to wear a blue horseshoe panics, here’s a run through of Chappell’s list of the 19 guys who will be in line for restricted or unrestricted contractual freedom, divided into handy categories:
Will be signed this summer
QB Peyton Manning -- The Colts plan on ensuring the NFL’s only four-time MVP is the league’s highest paid player.
Close to essential
S Antoine Bethea -- The underrated glue of a secondary that does well limiting big plays.
LB Clint Session -- The Colts usually let linebackers leave, but this playmaker he should be an exception.
S Melvin Bullitt -- Presuming Bob Sanders’ time is close to over, this versatile defensive back won’t be easily replaced.
Like to keep, but replaceable
RB Joseph Addai -- He’ll be 28 for 2011 and Donald Brown should be ready to be the lead guy, but if Addai’s price is right and his health is good…
PK Adam Vinatieri -- A healthy and clutch season can make retaining him more important.
OT Charlie Johnson -- A versatile piece who's nice to have, but if he can secure a starting job elsewhere he could want to move.
Rather have than lose
DT Dan Muir -- They’ve invested a lot of time and effort in developing him.
DT Antonio Johnson -- They’ve invested a lot of time and effort in developing him.
Would keep for cheap
DL Eric Foster -- A versatile piece who’s a small, fast interior guy well suited for Colts.
DL Keyunta Dawson -- Ranks as the fourth end now, but can contribute as role player.
G Kyle DeVan -- Did admirable work as a surprise starter last year, but they added a few interior guys.
Expendable
OT Tony Ugoh -- His stock could change, but at this point could rate as the team’s fourth tackle.
TE Gijon Robinson -- Might not make the roster this season if fifth-rounder Brody Eldridge is the blocking upgrade expected.
S Jamie Silva -- Doesn’t seem to me to be in line to inherit a starting spot if a frontline safety leaves.
DE Ervin Baldwin -- Late add in 2009 is behind two Pro Bowlers, new first-rounder Jerry Hughes and Dawson.
WR Sam Giguere -- With quality crowd ahead of him, not going to find room to work as a receiver.
To be determined
G Andy Alleman – Haven’t seen him in Colts’ uniform yet.
OT Adam Terry -- Haven’t seen him in Colts’ uniform yet.