Maybe Irsay is after paying Pagano to go away? Maybe he told Ballard tofree up some cash this year if he was given permission to axe the albatross. I really don't know.

I love this move. Not because Hankins wasn’t any good (he was) but because Ballard has a plan for what kind of player he wants and appears to be sticking to it. I think in a year or two we have a chance for a great team with this guy in charge. He has balls AND a plan. It’s gonna be fine and fun to watch this team take shape

That's the confusing thing on this. If we needed any sort of cap space whatsoever then maybe the move makes sense.

The only thing I can think of is Hankins asked to be released and Ballard granted that wish.

The Tweeter-in-Chief is saying this release was due to scheme change.

https://twitter.com/jimirsay


Reporting in IndyStar is suggesting the same thing:

But in 2018, the switch to a speed-based defense appears to have changed the team’s view of Hankins’ fit. The major emphasis on speed and quickness would, theoretically, limit Hankins’ effectiveness in the new scheme.

Sure I would have been a lot happier with that, but it takes 2 to tango and we don't know if he tried.

Agreed.........again from IndyStar on question of why no trade:

It's not clear whether the Colts tried to trade Hankins. But that effort likely would have been undermined by a trigger in his contract that would have guaranteed $4.5 million of his 2018 base salary if he was still on the roster by Sunday. Because other teams knew the Colts were facing a deadline to make a decision on Hankins, they would have had little leverage in any trade talks because Hankins being cut was the likeliest outcome.

I call bullshit on the doesn't fit the new scheme, the reason is all about the Benjamins. The Colt's saved 4.5m on his roster bonus so the could pay Luck his 6m roster bonus that is due today!

They have to spend approx 90% over a 4 year average.... we are in yr two of the period and have averaged 89%. so I dont think we are in too much trouble with 2 years to go

They're at 60% now, will need serious spending to get to 90%.

I honestly don't know what Ballard is doing.

I am willing to give him a chance and give him time. It seems he wants to build through the draft.

But I stated elsewhere, at some point you have to sign some free agents just to field a team. AT the current rate of releasing players and signing only one, I don't see how we'll even have enough to fill the roster.

Next season is going to be another rough one.