Indianapolis Lands Top Free Agent DT Johnathan Hankins for Three Years
Indianapolis brings Johnathan Hankins in to anchor a stingy defense
Johnathan Hankins has helped the Indianapolis Colts check a major need off their wish list with the NFL Draft two weeks away.
The Colts have signed the 25-year-old defensive tackle to a three-year contract, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Hankins will earn $14.5 million in guaranteed money, with the possibility of earning $30 million over his three years with the Colts. In 52 games for New York Hankins recorded 10 sacks, but is better known for being a talented run defender.
New York expected to lose Hankins in free agency after spending big on Brandon Marshall, Rhett Ellison, Keenan Robinson, and D.J. Fluker.
Expect the Colts to start Hankins next to David Perry over Margus Hunt on a defensive line that’s received a facelift in recent months. Jabaal Sheard and Al Woods were each brought in through free agency to play with Kendall Langford.
Johnathan Hankins gets contract he coveted.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 13, 2017
Colts get another defender to add to Jabaal Sheard, Sean Spence, John Simon, Barkevious Mingo.
Taking defensive tackles off the draft board priorities allows Indianapolis to find cornerbacks, running backs, and starting safeties.
Christian McCaffrey and Dalvin Cook could be considered if available in the first round, although finding a starter for the secondary is more likely.
Watch for Marlon Humphrey, Gareon Conley, Jabrill Peppers, or Tre’Davious White to be in play with the 15th overall pick in Philadelphia, which begins two weeks from Thursday on the Ben Franklin Parkway.