Colts former first-round pick wants 'to prove that I’m what this team needs'

The Indianapolis Colts had one of the worst defenses in the league last season, allowing the fifth-most points per game ( 24.4 ) and ninth-most total yards per game ( 349.8 ).

However, Indianapolis spent much of its offseason paying its homegrown talent, which included extending defensive tackle Grover Stewart, linebacker Zaire Franklin, cornerback Kenny Moore II and safety Julian Blackmon.

That must mean the team is expecting several of its young players to take their games to another level in 2024. Former first-round pass-rusher Kwity Paye is among those trying to do just that.

"I see it as a prove-it thing now more than anything," Paye said , via Justin Melo of TheDraftNetwork.com. "I want to prove that I'm what this team needs in a pass rusher moving forward. I'm going to get out there and get the sacks, get the production."

The No. 21 overall pick in 2021 has gotten better every season, registering four sacks as a rookie, six in his second year and 8.5 in 2023. Now, he has double-digits on his mind.

"I definitely want to get at least 10.5 sacks this year," Paye added. "I'm really shooting for 12-15 sacks, but double digits is the goal at the end of the day. I have to get there this year."

The Colts did give Paye a vote of confidence this offseason by deciding to exercise his fifth-year option, but he knows this year is still very important for his long-term salary goals. He wants to let his play do the talking.

"We'll have those contract discussions next offseason," Paye stated. "For the most part, I'm not really worried about that [this year]. I'm worried about having my best season yet. We'll discuss all that other stuff next offseason."

The Colts added some fuel to his fire this offseason by selecting pass-rusher Laiatu Latu in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

If Paye doesn't reach the expectations of those around him, Latu could prove to be his replacement. However, Paye doesn't view Latu as his competition.

"He's very humble and he's ready to work. It's great for the room. He fits right in because we're all humble and ready to put our best foot forward," Paye finished. "We want to be the best defensive line in the league."