The Colts had to deal with one shocking retirement before the 2019 season got underway, and they may soon be dealing with another one. Today, left tackle Anthony Castonzo told reporters, including Stephen Holder of The Athletic, that he is taking stock of his career and that he may elect to retire (Twitter link).
Castonzo is eligible for unrestricted free agency in March, having just finished the final year of a four-year, $43.8MM contract. However, if he does choose to continue playing, he does not appear to be interested in testing the open market. Per Holder (via Twitter), Castonzo said he will either retire or re-sign with the Colts. The 2011 first-rounder also told reporters that he was on his way to meet with GM Chris Ballard to discuss his future (Twitter link).
Castonzo has never made a Pro Bowl, but his departure would leave a massive hole on the Colts’ O-line. He has started all 132 games in which he has appeared in his pro career, and he has consistently performed at a high level.
Holder says that Castonzo will take some time to consider his options, but of course, the Colts need to know as soon as possible what he plans to do (Twitter link). Indianapolis will have a great deal of cap space to work with and a full slate of draft picks, so the team wouldn’t necessarily be sunk if Castonzo decides to hand up the cleats, but it would certainly be an unwelcome development.
Indiana is worse than CTE apparently
I think they end up with a 1 yr deal and it gives them some flexibility headed into the draft.