NFL free agency is almost here and while everyone is talking about the big names there's one player who might just surprise everyone with a massive contract: Dayo Odeyingbo . You might be asking "Dayo Who-ingbo?" but trust us you will want to know this guy. He could be about to break the bank and become one of the biggest earners in free agency .
Dayo Odeyingbo: From Colts Draft Pick to Free Agency Hot Commodity
Dayo Odeyingbo is an edge rusher who has been playing for the Indianapolis Colts. Drafted in the second round back in 2021 he is coming off his fourth season and it looks like it could be his last in Indy at least for now. Why? Because his contract is up and he is hitting Free Agency at just the right time.
In his fourth year Odeyingbo really stepped up. He became a starter and started racking up some impressive stats. He led the Colts with a whopping 50 quarterback pressures. That's a lot! NFL researchers say he is one of only six players in the league with over 30 QB hits but fewer than 20 starts in the last two seasons. And here's the kicker he is still only 25 years old. Teams love potential especially when it comes to getting after the quarterback.
Why the Hype? Odeyingbo's Skills and Sky-High Potential
So what makes Odeyingbo so valuable? Well edge rushers are always in demand in the NFL. Teams are constantly looking for players who can pressure the quarterback and disrupt offenses. And Odeyingbo has shown he can do just that. He is got a great combination of youth and production. Plus he is still considered to have a lot of untapped potential meaning he could get even better.
NFL experts are predicting Odeyingbo could land a contract in the range of $16 million to $20 million per year ! That's serious money putting him right up there with some big-name veteran edge rushers who are also hitting free agency like Khalil Mack and Chase Young. Some analysts even think Odeyingbo could get a bigger payday than those guys because of his youth and upside.
Colts in a Bind? Can Indy Afford to Keep Their Rising Star?
The Indianapolis Colts are in a tough spot. They have got a bunch of free agents this year including some important players. They need to decide who to bring back and who to let go. Odeyingbo is definitely near the top of their list of guys they would probably like to keep.
However the Colts have around $30 million in cap space. A $16-$20 million contract for Odeyingbo would eat up a big chunk of that. It might be too expensive for them to keep him especially with other needs on the roster. If Odeyingbo's price gets too high the Colts might have to let him walk and look for a replacement in the upcoming NFL draft.
Dayo Odeyingbo: Free Agency Strengths at a Glance
- Young Age: Only 25 years old with potential to improve.
- Edge Rusher Position: Highly valued position in the NFL.
- Proven Production: Led Colts in QB pressures in 2024.
- High Upside: Still developing and can become even more impactful.
- Impressive Stats: Among league leaders in QB hits despite limited starts.
Free Agency Frenzy is Coming: What's Next for Odeyingbo?
Teams can start talking to Dayo Odeyingbo and other free agents on Monday March 10th. That's when the negotiating window opens and things will really heat up. The official start of free agency where players can actually sign contracts is Wednesday March 12th.
Keep an eye on Dayo Odeyingbo in the coming days. He is one free agent who could make a big splash and get a contract that will turn some heads. Will the Colts pay up to keep him? Or will another team swoop in and give him the payday he is looking for? Free agency is always full of surprises and Odeyingbo's situation is definitely one to watch.