Who would you consider the most underappreciated player for the Indianapolis Colts? Tom Blair of NFL .com made his selection.
Who would you consider the most underappreciated player for the Indianapolis Colts entering the 2025 NFL season?
We’ve seen Bernhard Raimann selected before, but NFL.com’s Tom Blair went in a different direction, picking safety Nick Cross.
“Cross emerged as a capable starting safety,” wrote Blair. “The former 2022 third-round pick became the first Colts player since secondary-mate Kenny Moore in 2021 to finish a season with three-plus interceptions, at least one forced fumble and at least one sack. Cross also tied for the team lead in picks and ranked second in total tackles (146).”
While the Colts’ defense had its issues during the 2024 season, one of the encouraging signs was the growth and development of Cross.
After playing just over 400 defensive snaps over his first two seasons, with unknowns at the safety position going into 2024, Cross emerged over the summer and established himself as a steady presence, filling that strong safety role.
Cross was very good down near the line of scrimmage, particularly against the run. According to PFF, Cross totaled 140 tackles, ranked 14th in run defense grade, and was eighth among safeties in run stop rate.
In coverage, Cross flashed his playmaking ability with three interceptions and two pass breakups. His reliability as a tackler also helped limit pass-catchers to 9.3 yards per reception.
The next step for Cross will be building off last season’s performance. Helping him accomplish that will be the experience he gained in 2024 as a starter, along with playing Lou Anarumo’s defense, where the more disguise-heavy scheme has helped extract additional production out of the secondary.
Also, playing next to a do-it-all safety like Cam Bynum can free up Cross to be put into positions where he can really excel.