Indianapolis Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton is an impending free agent and while both sides would like to come to an agreement on a new deal, it seems the veteran is preparing to hit the market.
Hilton is one of the unrestricted free agents set to hit the market when the new league year arrives on March 17. The Colts and Hilton could come to an agreement before then but Josina Anderson reported that the former third-round pick is preparing for free agency.
Just connected with Colts WR T.Y.Hilton, an impending UFA. "I'm 100% focused on my 1st free agency..bc I get to make that decision." On if he wants to return to Indy, Hilton told me, "gotta work both ways." On if he feels the #Colts want him back, he added, "yea I think they do."
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) February 8, 2021
Chris Ballard said at his year-end press conference that they still value Hilton as a talent but that the money has to be right. Owner Jim Irsay echoed those thoughts, saying he hopes to see Hilton back wearing the horseshoe to end his career. Irsay also said the money has to be right for the team.
There is still over a month until the new league year hits so the Colts have time but they won’t really know what they are working with in terms of salary-cap space until the league confirms the number for 2021—it’s expected to be between $175–$185 million.
In an ideal world, Hilton returns on a cheaper contract but one that shows respect for what he’s done throughout his career and he retires as a Colt. But the NFL is a business and the two parties may be far apart on what they believe his value is.
It should be an interesting storyline to watch over the next month or so as Hilton’s future with the only team he’s ever played for hangs in the balance.
