Colts Defender Named 'Free Agent to Watch' by NFL Insider

Veteran edge rusher Samson Ebukam could have a strong market as he hits free agency.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Indianapolis Colts defensive end Samson Ebukam was named a "free agent to watch" by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero as the edge rusher market develops ahead of the league's legal tampering period. Ebukam signed with the Colts in 2023 and had a productive season, but missed the 2024 campaign due to an Achilles injury. He played a rotational role in 2025, recording 23 pressures and 3 sacks.

Why it matters

The Colts will need to address their edge rusher position this offseason, with Ebukam, Kwity Paye, and Tyquan Lewis all set to hit free agency. Ebukam's potential market value could impact the team's plans as they look to get younger and faster on defense.

The details

Ebukam signed with the Colts as a free agent in 2023 and made 17 starts that year, logging 48 quarterback pressures and 9.5 sacks. However, he missed the 2024 season after suffering an Achilles injury during training camp. This past year, he took on more of a rotational role, appearing in 14 games with one start and recording 23 pressures and 3 sacks.

  • Ebukam signed with the Colts as a free agent during the 2023 offseason.
  • Ebukam missed the 2024 season after suffering an Achilles injury during training camp.
  • This past year, Ebukam played a rotational role, appearing in 14 games with one start.

The players

Samson Ebukam

A veteran edge rusher who signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 and had a productive season, but missed the 2024 campaign due to an Achilles injury.

Kwity Paye

A Colts edge rusher who is set to hit free agency this offseason.

Tyquan Lewis

A Colts edge rusher who is set to hit free agency this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Ebukam could have a free agent market developing.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Insider (NFL Network)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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