Justin Houston reaches two-year deal with Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts have reached agreement on a two-year deal with former Chiefs pass rusher Justin Houston worth up to $24 million.

The Indianapolis Colts have made their long-awaited splash in free agency with the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs pass rusher Justin Houston to a two-year deal. Adam Schefter says the deal is worth a reported $24 million.

The Chiefs released Houston earlier this spring in a cost-cutting measure that ended up as one of several high-profile moves that shed the team of long-term talent as well as financial obligations. Other surprises included the release of star safety Eric Berry and the trade of pass rusher Dee Ford.

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While Houston’s days of putting up 22 sacks are behind him, he has plenty more in the tank than the average NFL fan might realize. Even last year, he finished as one of the most effective pass rushers in the NFL, per Pro Football Focus, and put up another 9 sacks in only 12 starts. He also had a career high 5 forced fumbles, showing that he can be make an impact play even as he’s into his thirties.

For the Colts, Houston adds a well-rounded defender who can stuff the run and disrupt the passer while also serving as an important on-field leader for such a young defense. Developing talents like Darius Leonard, Kemoko Turay, and Tyquan Lewis will especially enjoy learning from a four-time Pro Bowler.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard is quite familiar with what Justin Houston can do on the field after serving in the Chiefs front office for years before taking over the front office in Indy. He’s emphasized growth through the draft despite having plenty of money to burn on the open market, and now he’s added the veteran leadership he wanted to complement his long-term plan.

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