The Indianapolis Colts are not expected to tender a banned free agent defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.
While it may come as a surprise to some given the improvements they have shown during the 2021 season, the Colts haven't made many strides beyond free agency when it comes to their players ready to hit the market.
The two sides may still come to an agreement once the new league year begins, but it appears Stallworth will hit the market.
The #Colts are not expected to tender RFA DT Taylor Stallworth, according to his agent @TesslerSports. IND hasn’t ruled out a return, but the versatile Stallworth, who had 16 tackles and three sacks last year, should find work quickly.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2022
With Stallworth coming to market, it could open up the role to be signed for veteran Quinton Jefferson. Jefferson seemed like a solid fit for the Colts defense in the past and with Gus Bradley taking over as defensive coordinator, it has become even more so.
Despite a limited role in 2021, Stallworth had 3.0 sacks and 12 quarterback hits and was a pleasant surprise as a piece of depth on the defensive line.
We'll see what happens when the legal loophole period opens on Monday, but for now it looks like Stallworth will hit the market.