Indianapolis Colts also interested in Jake Long
Andrew Luck was among the most-hit quarterbacks in the NFL last season, and the Indianapolis Colts could definitely use some added beef on the offensive line. Ian Rapoport, via Colts beat writer George Bremer, is reporting that the Colts are now among the four teams interested in Long’s services.
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Arguably the top tackle available on the free agent market, Long offers immense upside if he can get healthy again (which it looks like he is) and be among the best offensive linemen in the NFL. The Chicago Bears, St. Louis Rams, and Philadelphia Eagles are three other tackle-needy teams with interest in Long (the Chicago Tribune confirmed the Bears interest in Long today). The Miami Dolphins also want to keep Long, but it will be interesting to see if they can afford him, as their plan is to add offensive playmakers like Mike Wallace.
Long’s play has slipped recently, but he looks healthier and should still be one of the league’s best tackles. A bidding war could give Long a risky contract, but the reward is well worth the risk for teams that really need help at the tackle position.
The Rams tackle situation needs some clarity, whilst the Bears have had one of the worst tackle pairings in the league for quite some time. Jay Cutler will likely get his wish and some added protection very soon, because the Bears are hot in pursuit of tackles like Jermon Bushrod and Phil Loadholt as well.
The Eagles are looking great at left tackle with Jason Peters set to return from his injury, but their situation at the right tackle position is problematic at best. If the Colts decide to sign Long, then Bremer believes he will stay at LT and Anthony Castonzo will have to make way and move to the right side.
As usual, Jeff Ireland is stubborn on his asking price, and I highly doubt Long stays with the Dolphins. Although they are wise to not want to pay too much for him, there will be a bidding war and only teams extremely serious about an upgrade at tackle- like the Bears- will be able to sign Long.
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