The Indianapolis Colts added another veteran to their secondary this week, signing safety Jonathan Owens to a one-year deal. Owens played the past two seasons with the Chicago Bears and put up 19 tackles during the 2025 regular season, plus one more in the playoffs.
Over seven NFL seasons split between the Texans, Packers, and Bears, he has racked up 191 solo tackles, 104 assists, 2.0 sacks, four fumble recoveries, and two picks.
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For the Colts, it looks like a move built around adding experience and shoring up special teams. It is a low-risk signing that probably won’t eat up much cap space.
Simone Biles reacts to Jonathan Owens’ Colts deal
Owens’ wife, Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in World Championships history with seven Olympic gold medals, didn’t waste time reacting to the news. She posted a story on Instagram celebrating her husband’s next opportunity with the Colts.
“No Friday the 13th scaries here,” she wrote. “So proud of you baby. Indy, here we come.”
How does Owens fit with the Colts?
Owens’ situation feels a lot like what’s going on with Juanyeh Thomas. The most obvious value he brings right now is on special teams, where he has got real experience. He’s logged over 1,000 snaps across five of the six units over the years, so he’s been around that part of the game.
NFL defensive back Jonathan Owens and wife and United States gymnast Simone Biles. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images
Defense is trickier to figure out. Outside of Cam Bynum, the depth chart doesn’t have a ton of experience, which could crack the door open for Owens. He’s already got 35 career starts under his belt, and that kind of background matters when guys are fighting for reps.
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Most of his work has come at free safety. But the Colts might want to pair Bynum with someone who can work closer to the box, even though Lou Anarumo’s defense values guys who can move around.
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