INDIANAPOLIS – The first significant offseason move for the Colts came on Monday.
The team released second-year edge rusher Jonathan Newsome, after he was arrested last week on marijuana possession charges.
After leading the team in sacks as a rookie (6.5 in 2014), Newsome had just one sack last season.
Off the field, the former fifth-round pick fell in the 2014 draft because of character concerns.
"Dumb mistakes," according to Newsome, forced the Ohio native to transfer from Ohio State to Ball State following his sophomore season.
A suspension at Ball State caused teams to re-think where Newsome would fall on draft boards.
Newsome, whose snap count went down from 530-350 in 2015, does leave the void of a young pass rusher on the Colts' roster.
Robert Mathis, Trent Cole and Erik Walden are the lone returning pass rushers who recorded sacks last season. Former first-round pick Bjoern Werner is also under contract.
On Monday, Newsome sent out the following tweets:
I would like to thank Coach Pagano, Ryan Grigson, Jim Irsay and the entire Colts organization for the opportunity of a life time. — Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016
I learned alot during my time here in Indianapolis, becoming a better football player and person. I have made mistakes, but ive grown. — Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016
Somethings happen and I cant question God and his plan. Bottom line you have to stay the course and pray about it but never worry about it. — Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016
Thanks again to all of Coltsnation for rockin with me! This wont be the last time you see J New.... — Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016
