How free agent signee Jerry Tillery can impact Colts' defensive line

The Indianapolis Colts recently added to their defensive tackle position, signing former first-round draft pick Jerry Tillery. So what can Tillery add to this position group? This will be Tillery's eighth NFL season, and over his first seven years, he's appeared in 113 games and made 53 starts.

He's also been quite durable, playing in at least 15 games every year he's been in the NFL, and hasn't missed any games over the last three seasons. Over the last four seasons, Tillery has filled more of a rotation role, averaging 452 snaps per year during that span. The bulk of his NFL snaps have come rushing the quarterback.

According to PFF , Tillery has 2,150 career pass rush snaps vs. 1,602 run defense snaps. Tillery spent the 2025 season with the Kansas City Chiefs, recording 12 pressures, while playing some special teams snaps as well.

"Tillery played a limited role in Kansas City's defense last season, but was moderately effective when he was on the field," said Chiefs Wire managing editor John Dillon. "While his time with the Chiefs was brief, Tillery is exactly the kind of veteran defender who will make the life of a coordinator easier — even if only by virtue of his extensive experience. This might not be the flashiest signing for Indianapolis, but it should prove to be a productive one.