Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon was officially re-signed Tuesday, officially inking a one-year deal to remain with the team for the 2024 season after testing free agency.
Though Blackmon took a pair of visits with the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers on the open market, the 25-year-old had a feeling he would be back wearing the horseshoe.
“This was home, and this is the place where it started and it this is the place I want to finish if I can. Everybody knows how free agency went this year for safeties," Blackmon told reporters Tuesday. "We just wanted to be patient with the whole process and we were able to come up with something that everybody was happy with.”
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The former third-round pick has shown some intriguing talent throughout his four seasons since arriving in Indy out of Utah. He made the switch to the strong safety position in 2023 and thrived in the new role within Gus Bradley's defense.
He recorded career-high marks in tackles (88), solo tackles (55), tackles for loss (five), interceptions (four) and passes defensed (eight). According to Pro Football Focus, Blackmon also thrived in coverage. He allowed a 70.5% reception rate and a 57.5 passer rating on 44 targets.
The next step he wants to take, though, comes with staying on the field. Blackmon has yet to play a complete season since arriving in the NFL.
“Man, I would say the next step is honestly to finish. I feel like I’ve started out strong and I’ve gotten to the end, but I haven’t finished," Blackmon said. "For me, I think that everybody else knows it too, one of the things that I want to do is play 17 games. I think that, more than just from a leadership aspect, I think being on the field for my teammates is something that I want to be able to do.”
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With Blackmon returning for another season, the need at the safety position isn't as strong. Still, the Colts would benefit from adding some depth and competition to the depth chart with a selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Blackmon will continue to be a key part of the Colts defense as it looks to take a step in Year 3 under Bradley, and much of the focus will be on whether he can finally put together a full campaign.
