Breaking Down the Indianapolis Colts' Salary Cap Situation After 2025 Free Agency Moves
The Indianapolis Colts have been making some serious moves in the first wave of 2025 NFL free agency, bringing in new talent to strengthen their roster. But with every signing comes a financial impact—so what do these additions mean for the team's salary cap? How much cap space does General Manager Chris Ballard still have to work with as the offseason progresses?
The Colts’ Free Agency Signings: Who’s In?
The Colts weren’t shy about making moves this offseason, adding multiple players on both sides of the ball. Here's a rundown of their free-agent acquisitions:
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CB Charvarius Ward
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S Cam Bynum
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QB Daniel Jones
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IDL Neville Gallimore
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RB Khalil Herbert
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CB Corey Ballentine
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K Spencer Shrader
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OL Danny Pinter
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OL Wesley French
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WR Ashton Dulin
In addition to these signings, the Colts also restructured Braden Smith’s contract to create some much-needed cap space. This move, combined with their new player additions, has shaped their financial outlook heading into the rest of the offseason.
Where Does the Salary Cap Stand Now?
According to Over the Cap, the Colts currently have $21.07 million in available cap space. That might sound like a solid number, but in the grand scheme of things, it actually places them 21st in the league in terms of available funds. That means that while they have some room to work with, they aren’t exactly rolling in excess cash compared to other teams.
But here's the catch—not all of that money is going to be used on additional free agents. The team still has other financial commitments to consider, including:
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Signing their 2025 draft class
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Maintaining in-season reserves for potential emergencies
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Other operational expenses throughout the season
So while it’s tempting to think the Colts can just go on another spending spree, they have to be strategic with their remaining cap space.
The Price Tag on These New Additions
So, what do these new signings mean for the Colts' salary cap in 2025? Here’s a breakdown of their cap hits for the upcoming season:
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CB Charvarius Ward: $9.02 million
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QB Daniel Jones: $13.65 million
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S Cam Bynum: $7.01 million
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WR Ashton Dulin: $2.27 million
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IDL Neville Gallimore: $1.13 million
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OL Danny Pinter: $1.33 million
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RB Khalil Herbert: N/A
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CB Corey Ballentine: N/A
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K Spencer Shrader: $960,000
One of the most significant numbers here is Daniel Jones’ $13.65 million cap hit—a big chunk of the team's available funds. While Jones adds experience and depth to the quarterback room, that’s a hefty price tag for someone who may not be the long-term answer under center. Meanwhile, Charvarius Ward’s $9.02 million cap hit is another big investment, but considering the importance of cornerback play in today’s NFL, it's a move that makes sense for the Colts.
What’s Next for the Colts?
With limited cap space left and the bulk of free agency wrapped up, don’t expect any blockbuster signings from here on out. Instead, the Colts will likely focus on minor depth additions leading up to the NFL Draft, where they’ll make their biggest impact on reshaping the roster.
Ballard and his team will need to be strategic in managing their remaining cap space, ensuring they have enough flexibility for mid-season adjustments and any unexpected needs that arise during the season.
So, while the Colts have made their big moves, the offseason is far from over. Now, all eyes turn to the NFL Draft, where the team will look to add young talent to complement their free-agent acquisitions. Will these moves be enough to push the Colts toward playoff contention in 2025? That remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—this offseason is shaping up to be an exciting one for Colts fans!
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