C.J. Mosley Signs Two-Year, $20 Million Deal with Indianapolis Colts After Release from Jets
In a significant move in the NFL offseason, former New York Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley has officially signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts. The deal reportedly includes $13 million in fully guaranteed money, marking a fresh start for the veteran linebacker as he joins a team looking to bolster its defense ahead of the upcoming season.
Mosley, a five-time Pro Bowler, was released by the New York Jets in a salary-cap-related decision. The move came despite his strong performances and leadership on the field, with the Jets opting to clear financial space for other roster improvements. However, Mosley did not remain on the free-agent market for long, as the Indianapolis Colts quickly pursued him, recognizing his experience and ability to anchor a defense.
The 31-year-old linebacker now brings his exceptional tackling ability, leadership skills, and veteran presence to a Colts defense that has been searching for consistency at the linebacker position. The signing reflects Indianapolis’ commitment to improving their defensive unit, particularly after struggling in key areas last season.
C.J. Mosley has been one of the most consistent and productive linebackers in the NFL since being drafted in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2014. Over the course of his career, he has recorded over 1,000 total tackles, 10 interceptions, 10 forced fumbles, and 19 sacks, making him one of the most well-rounded linebackers in the league.
His ability to read offenses, command a defense, and make game-changing plays makes him an ideal fit for the Colts, who have been seeking a strong defensive leader. Indianapolis already boasts a talented front seven, but Mosley’s addition gives them a proven playmaker who can elevate the unit’s performance.
The Colts’ defense struggled with inconsistency last season, particularly in stopping the run and defending against short-to-mid-range passing plays. Mosley’s presence in the middle of the field should help address these weaknesses. His experience will also be invaluable for younger players on the Colts’ roster, particularly linebackers like Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed.
Indianapolis is expected to utilize Mosley as a key defensive leader, allowing him to play in both run-stopping and pass-coverage situations. His ability to make pre-snap adjustments and diagnose offensive schemes will provide the Colts with a level of intelligence and instinct that was sometimes missing in their previous linebacker rotations.
While Mosley has never played for the Colts before, he will reunite with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, who coached against him multiple times during Bradley’s tenure with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bradley’s aggressive, disciplined defensive approach should fit well with Mosley’s natural style of play, allowing him to thrive in Indianapolis’ system.
Additionally, Mosley’s veteran leadership should help solidify the Colts’ defense, which aims to make strides after a disappointing 2024 season where they missed the playoffs.
C.J. Mosley’s two-year, $20 million deal with the Colts is a significant addition for Indianapolis, providing them with an experienced, high-IQ linebacker who can make an immediate impact. With $13 million guaranteed, the Colts are making a strong investment in Mosley’s leadership and playmaking ability.
As the team prepares for the 2025 NFL season, all eyes will be on how Mosley integrates into the Colts’ defense and whether he can help lead them back to playoff contention. If he performs at the level he has throughout his career, this signing could be a game-changer for Indianapolis.