The Colts have begun clearing cap room in anticipation of next month’s free agent period, announcing today that they’ve cut three players. According to a press release, the club has released veteran safety LaRon Landry, and waived linebacker Andrew Jackson and tackle Xavier Nixon.
Landry, a former sixth overall pick, signed a four-year deal with the Colts in 2013, which guaranteed him $11MM in his first season. However, his two seasons in Indianapolis were marred by injuries, underwhelming play, and a PED suspension which cost him four games this past year. With the 30-year-old’s cap number set to jump to $5.75MM in 2015, it makes sense that the Colts would decide to move on from Landry. The move will create $2.25MM in cap savings, reducing his cap hit to $3.5MM in dead money.
Meanwhile, Jackson, a sixth-round pick in 2014, contributed sparingly in 2014, primarily on special teams. He was arrested for careless driving and suspicion of DUI last month, which presumably prompted his release. As for Nixon, he saw limited playing time in 2014, and wasn’t effective when he played — 65 of his 99 offensive snaps for the season came in Week 16 against Dallas, and Pro Football Focus gave him a -7.8 grade for the game (subscription required).
Because Landry is a vested veteran, he’ll become a free agent immediately, and will be able to sign with any team right away, rather than having to wait until March 10. Jackson and Nixon will also be able to hit the open market early, but they’ll have to pass through waivers first.