The Indianapolis Colts get their first loss of the season in a tight game on the road in Los Angeles. A plethora of unforced errors plagued this Colts team, which has otherwise been a well-oiled machine on both sides of the ball. You cannot expect to win every game, but this is one Colts fans will talk about all season long. Most felt like they were the better team, but again, the errors and penalties doomed them this week.
In a week where we have seen the last of veteran Xavien Howard, we continue to see one player continue his major role. The player is now veteran safety Nick Cross. In a season of change on the defensive side of the ball, Cross is becoming Mr. Reliable.
We knew this season might come with some growing pains and inconsistencies. The new defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo, took over from the inept Gus Bradley last season. Not only was a new scheme implemented, but a new attitude and voice came along with it. With Nick Cross playing on a lame duck contract, the argument for an in-season extension is growing.
Nick Cross has become a stalwart on this defense
When you look at leadership on this Colts defense, a few names come to mind: defensive end DeForest Buckner, linebacker Zaire Franklin, and cornerback Kenny Moore II. If I had to choose one more, it would arguably be Nick Cross. He has been the consistent voice and player in the safety room for the franchise.
He was acquired in the 2022 NFL Draft after Chris Ballard traded up in the 3rd round to get him on the team. One that was criticized from the beginning and continued into the start of his career. As with most rookies and young players, his career was relegated to special teams and small situational packages.
After making the switch from free safety to strong safety, he has blossomed. Last season, he finished with 146 total tackles and three interceptions. Both were career highs in their respective categories. This season, he is on pace for another terrific season. He finished Week 4 with a game-high 14 tackles and continues to acclimate himself to this new defensive scheme.
The case for an extension
Nick Cross has everything you look for in a franchise safety. He has shown improvement each year, leadership qualities, and now he has shown the ability to quickly integrate himself into a new scheme. The talk this preseason was unknown not only for the coaching staff but also for the players as well, especially defensive players.
Anytime you change scheme, there is an adjustment period, and it appears that Nick Cross (so far) is showing some immunity to it. With the jump in earnings for wide receivers and the direction of the NFL becoming a passing league, having a solid and reliable safety is becoming increasingly important. The only player to sign an extension since the Irsay sisters have assumed ownership is left tackle Bernhard Raimann. With a strong start to the season – barring a collapse – the entire staff looks like they will return. If Nick Cross wants to be here, then it’s time to get an extension done sooner rather than later, before the price continues to rise for his services.
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