Colts DT Simon Status Uncertain

Despite the uncertainty of his future playing for the Indianapolis Colts, defensive tackle Corey Simon has stated that he intends to report to the team’s training camp on Sunday.  Simon told Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star, “I don’t have any comment at this point. I’m just going to report and go from there.”  Simon’s status with the team has been in limbo since he missed the entire 2006 season with a knee injury and an undisclosed illness, which has been reported to be “polyarthritis”.  The Colts placed Simon on the  “non-football illness/injury” list back in October of 2006.

The Colts at this point have at least a couple of options:  they can release him, or, depending on his upcoming physical, be allowed to rejoin the team and reinforce their defensive line.  Releasing him would count for $9 million against the mandated salary cap of $109 million.  On the other hand, retaining him would count for slightly over $7 million.  From most indications, it appears that Simon will be released by the Colts.  As Colts owner Jim Irsay has said on more than one occasion, he is frustrated by getting so little return on such a major investment.  One would think that the upcoming physical that Simon will take will be a determining factor in Simon’s role, if any, with the team.

Another indicator is the fact that Simon was not invited to the ring ceremony in Indianapolis after the Super Bowl.  Typically players in good standing with their team are allowed to attend an event such as this.  In addition, Simon’s agent, Roosevelt Barnes, stated to the Star,  ”He’s in great shape.  “He’s ready to play football.  I don’t know what the Colts’ plans are.  I’m thinking they are planning on having him play, but I don’t know.  No one has returned any of my phone calls.”  Perhaps Mr. Barnes, that is because the Colts, in my opinion, have made up their minds already.  With so little contribution by a player who is making some major dollars, it would be understandable and not at all surprising if the team releases Simon.  Myself, I expect an announcement regarding Simon’s status with the Colts to be released early this coming week.