INDIANAPOLIS — Johnathan Hankins' second free agency tour in as many years has apparently come to an end.
The former Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle today reportedly signed with the Oakland Raiders, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Hankins is coming off a standout 2017 season with the Indianapolis Colts, as he finished tied for fifth on the team with 44 tackles (four for a loss), while also adding two sacks, five quarterback hits and three passes defensed in 15 games, all starts.
But while Hankins — who signed with the Colts as a free agent last spring — was a perfect piece up front in the team's 3-4 scheme, the Colts' switch to a 4-3 base defense this offseason resulted in Hankins' release back in March.
Hankins had interest from several teams across the league once he became a free agent, and reportedly visited with the Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns before deciding to sign in Oakland.
Hankins was one of multiple players from the 2017 roster who were not retained for 2018 due to their fit in the 4-3. Others included cornerback Rashaan Melvin — who also eventually signed with the Raiders — as well as defensive end Henry Anderson, who was traded to the Jets, and defensive end/outside linebacker John Simon, who remains a free agent.
Other key Colts players from the 2017 roster who have signed elsewhere include wide receiver Kamar Aiken (Philadelphia Eagles), linebacker Jon Bostic (Pittsburgh Steelers), running back Frank Gore (Miami Dolphins), linebacker Barkevious Mingo (Seattle Seahawks) and wide receiver Donte Moncrief (Jacksonville Jaguars).
