Longtime Indianapolis Colts wideout T.Y. Hilton remains on the open market, and while his only NFL franchise tries to figure out its QB situation, the veteran playmaker is likely weighing his options in free agency.
Should T.Y. Hilton look for a fresh start?
Hilton, 32, is entering his 11th season in the NFL. After spending his entire career in Indianapolis, he has the opportunity to latch onto another franchise. While Hilton probably wants to see what the Colts do at QB before making any decisions, he could be an appealing veteran presence for a young locker room.
Hilton can still be a serviceable playmaker, as well. Last season, he appeared in 10 games (nine starts) and produced 23 catches for 331 yards and 3 touchdowns. He’s likely viewed as a third or fourth receiver at this point in his career, but that’s fine, considering what he brings in locker-room culture.
The Philadelphia Eagles need wideout help, and Hilton has a background with head coach Nick Sirianni and passing game coordinator Ken Patullo. The Los Angeles Chargers have stacked their roster with veterans this offseason and could welcome Hilton’s presence opposite Mike Williams and Keenan Allen. Then there’s the Miami Dolphins, Hilton’s hometown team, which has a bunch of big targets but could use a nuanced route runner on the outside.
Hilton likely will need to wait until closer to the draft to get a desirable deal, and given the money he’s made in his career, he can afford to be patient. Hilton can watch the landscape of the wide receiver position adjust around the league. If the idea of being a veteran presence on a young playoff team like the Chargers or Eagles entices him, he could make the move. If not, he could return to the Colts if they land a desirable QB.
Can’t rule out a return to the Colts
Hilton has been the heart and soul of the Colts’ offense for a while. And although he’s dealt with his fair share of injury woes, his presence in the locker room has remained important. Anyone who watched the Colts’ regular-season Hard Knocks miniseries knows that Hilton has an important spot in the organization.
The Colts have a boatload of cap space, so signing Hilton up for another short-term deal shouldn’t be a problem, even if they inherit a huge QB contract for someone like Matt Ryan or Baker Mayfield in a trade. If the Colts deal for one of those proven QBs, Hilton should want to continue, and perhaps conclude, his career in Indianapolis.
Hilton has been a fixture of the organization longer than most players not named Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison. Closing out his career with the Colts would be an excellent legacy to leave in the NFL.