Colts Face Crucial Decision on Key Defender for 2026
The Indianapolis Colts will face a significant decision regarding the future of one of their key defensive players after this season.
Over the past two years, the Colts have made a concerted effort to strengthen their edge position, drafting Laiatu Latu (15th overall in 2023) and JT Tuimoloau (45th overall in 2024), who now join veteran Kwity Paye.
While Paye hasn’t reached elite status, he has been a reliable presence, especially in defending against the run. The Colts exercised Paye’s fifth-year option for 2025, recognizing his value as a steady starter. His role in stopping opposing ground attacks has been vital, which is why Paye’s contract situation has become one of the most pressing decisions for Indianapolis. 
According to Bleacher Report, Paye’s upcoming contract is a key focus for the team, especially given the promising potential of Latu and Tuimoloau, who could eventually replace him.
Moe Moton shared his thoughts on the situation, noting that Paye is still “a tier below the top young pass-rushers” in the league, having never posted a double-digit sack season. However, Moton acknowledged Paye’s consistent performance as a three-down defender, with back-to-back seasons of at least eight sacks and 10 tackles for loss.
Paye has earned respectable Pro Football Focus grades, including a 67.4 for run defense and 37 quarterback pressures. While he’s often criticized for not being a premier pass-rusher, his steady production (8.0 sacks in 2023) is not something the Colts can easily overlook.
Looking ahead, the Colts are well-stocked with talent on the defensive line, thanks to their recent investments in edge rushers. Moton points out that if Latu and Tuimoloau have lackluster seasons in 2025, Paye’s solid performance might make him an even more valuable asset, possibly securing him a new contract.
The Colts’ decisions will largely depend on how Latu and Tuimoloau develop. Latu will look to take a significant step forward in his second year, while Tuimoloau will face a crucial rookie season, as his impact could determine much about the team’s future plans.
As for Paye, his goal is to solidify himself as a cornerstone of the Colts’ defensive line. In 58 career games (all starts), he has recorded 26.5 sacks, 41 quarterback hits, 170 tackles (31 for loss), and five forced fumbles.
Given the Colts’ investment in Paye (a first-round pick in 2021), it’s clear that they hope he will build on his solid production and achieve greater success in 2025. If Paye hits double-digit sacks and continues to generate consistent pressure, it’s very likely the Colts will reward him with a new deal in 2026.
No Comment! Be the first one.