Pursuing a depth at safety becomes critical for the Indianapolis Colts as they prepare for the upcoming season. With Cam Bynum and Nick Cross set as the starters, both have shown promise—Bynum with his versatility and Cross after a breakout 2024 season. However, the depth chart behind them is concerningly thin. While Rodney Thomas has experience, having started 26 games, his defensive role was minimal last year. The Colts may need to seek additional experience to provide stability behind their starters.

The Indianapolis Colts' Nick Cross has emerged as a standout safety, earning recognition as the most underappreciated player on the team according to NFL.com's Tom Blair. Cross, a former third-round pick in 2022, made an impressive impact last season by becoming the first Colts player since Kenny Moore to achieve three or more interceptions, a forced fumble, and at least one sack in a single season. Despite the overall struggles of the Colts defense in 2024, Cross's development has been a bright spot, as he has become a reliable presence at strong safety after playing limited snaps in his first two seasons.

His ability to lead the team in interceptions and place second in total tackles (146) showcases his growth and importance within the defense. As the Colts prepare for the 2025 NFL season, the hope is that Cross will continue to build on this momentum, solidifying his role and making impactful contributions that could elevate the team's defensive performance.

With the 2025 NFL draft concluded, eyes are already shifting toward the Indianapolis Colts' unrestricted free agents set to hit the market in 2026. Key players include left tackle Bernhard Raimann, who has emerged as a top-tier lineman, and wide receiver Alec Pierce, who had a breakout 2024, totaling 824 yards and seven touchdowns. Their performances in 2025 will be pivotal for their future with the franchise.

Defensively, Kwity Paye continues to be a strong presence, and his future could be influenced by the team's recent draft picks. Braden Smith's revised contract for 2025 also positions him as a potential departure candidate if the season does not go as planned. The Colts' quarterback situation, particularly the development of Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones, will also heavily influence the team’s direction moving forward.

The 2025 NFL Draft produced some questionable selections that leave fans scratching their heads. The Cleveland Browns surprised many by drafting Dillon Gabriel in the third round, creating a crowded quarterback room alongside Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, and other rookies. Similarly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers picked Emeka Egbuka despite having a strong receiving corps, which may limit his immediate impact. The Minnesota Vikings opted for Donovan Jackson, a pick that seems odd given their defensive needs. Meanwhile, Tyleik Williams’ selection by the Detroit Lions raises eyebrows due to his similarity to a current player. Lastly, the Los Angeles Rams may have selected the wrong tight end in Terrance Ferguson, potentially passing on higher-upside prospects.

Nick Cross, the Indianapolis Colts safety, recently voiced his strong support for quarterback Anthony Richardson in an appearance on 'Good Morning Football.' He praised Richardson's impressive physical attributes, including his height (6'5"), weight (250 lbs), and speed (4.4 sec in the 40-yard dash), while also highlighting his elite arm talent. Cross believes that Richardson possesses a bright future in the NFL, emphasizing that it's not a question of 'if' he will succeed, but 'when.'

As Richardson enters his third season, he faces a critical competition for the starting quarterback position against Daniel Jones. While his potential is evident, consistency remains a key focus for Richardson, who completed only 47% of his passes last season and struggled with turnovers. Cross points out that many successful quarterbacks have faced similar challenges early in their careers, encouraging fans to be patient with Richardson’s development.