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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Kevin Hickey

How new S Rodney McLeod fits with the Colts

The Indianapolis Colts are expected to bring in veteran safety Rodney McLeod to help the depth of the secondary.

Adding depth to the safety room was a massive need for the Colts this offseason, especially after George Odum signed a three-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers.

The 31-year-old McLeod seems like the right kind of signing for the Colts when it comes to depth in the secondary. This move will allow Khari Willis and Julian Blackmon to retain their starting roles while having solid veteran depth behind them.

While McLeod has seen time as a versatile piece working both as a free safety and a strong safety, he’s most likely to be used in the former role.

Even though Blackmon is coming back from a torn Achilles, McLeod will be there to give that spot depth and maybe even step in as the starter if Blackmon’s recovery keeps him from participating during the offseason workouts and training camp.

McLeod won’t bring the boom in the run game like a Kam Chancellor or a Brian Dawkins but his experience and intelligence makes him more of an asset in this phase than a liability.

The former undrafted rookie will make his money in pass coverage. Even with his age getting up there, McLeod allowed a 62.7 passer rating in coverage on 22 targets during the 2021 season, per Pro Football Focus.

In the locker room, McLeod is exactly the type of player the Colts look for. He brings high character and leadership while being an active member of the community.

The Colts needed some veteran safety help in the worst way this offseason. McLeod should ease some of those troubles with his skill set being a strong match for Gus Bradley’s defense.


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