Feb. 21, 2026, 8:11 a.m. ET
What teams could be potential landing spots for Indianapolis Colts’ free agent safety Nick Cross?
A few NFL analysts have weighed in.
Cross was moved around Lou Anarumo’s defense, but primarily filled the strong safety role, with Cam Bynum often as the deep safety.
Cross was again productive near the line of scrimmage, logging 16 quarterback pressures and the fourth-highest run-stop rate among safeties, according to PFF.
This past season, Cross gave up 11.3 yards per catch vs. 9.3 yards per reception in 2024, and his ball production dropped. However, ESPN’s Aaron Schatz wrote recently that Cross performed well in coverage by his DVOA metric.
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The Colts just invested in the safety position last offseason, signing Bynum to a big deal. Does Ballard prioritize that unit again, with there being other needs to address?
Cross is still just 24 years old and has a good amount of NFL experience. Other teams will be interested.
Potential landing spots for Colts’ free agent S Nick Cross
FOX Sports: Titans
They said it: “If he doesn’t stick in Indy, he’d be a smart play for the Titans, where Gus Bradley knows him well and the front office has ample cap space to rebuild their defense with young potential.” – Greg Auman
ESPN: Colts
They said it: “The Colts will give a big extension to 25-year-old safety Nick Cross. He did well in my coverage DVOA metric and was involved in 14.0% of Colts defensive plays, fourth among safeties in 2025. His average run tackle came after a gain of just 4.3 yards (ranked third among safeties with at least 20 run tackles).” – Aaron Schatz