INDIANAPOLIS —Jon Bostic, the Indianapolis Colts' starting WILL linebacker in 2017, has found a new home.
The free agent has reached a two-year deal to join the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team announced Sunday morning.
Bostic was one of several free agents signed to the defensive side of the ball for the Colts last season, and although he had missed the entire 2016 season with a foot injury, it didn't take long for him to secure one of Indy's starting jobs at inside linebacker.
Showing improvement throughout the season, especially against the run, Bostic was leading the team in tackles with 97 (six for a loss) and also contributed one sack, three passes defensed and a fumble recovery prior to suffering a season-ending right knee injury Week 15 against the Denver Broncos.
Bostic was also counted on as a strong veteran presence for several younger players at the position, including fellow starter Antonio Morrison, as well as Jeremiah George and rookie Anthony Walker, each of whom are under contract with the Colts for the 2018 season.
But with the Colts switching from the 3-4 to the 4-3 defense this offseason under new head coach Frank Reich and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, the team completely changed what it is looking for out of its defenders, especially at the linebacker position, and decided to let Bostic — and several other defensive players from the 2017 roster — test the open market.
Bostic becomes the fourth player of the Colts' 13-player 2018 free agent class to sign elsewhere so far, joining wide receiver Donte Moncrief, linebacker Barkevious Mingo and cornerback Rashaan Melvin.
57 Bostic, Jon ILB 6-1 245lbs 26yrs 5yrs Florida
