Colts release Hankins just 1 year into $27M deal

The Indianapolis Colts have released defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, the club announced Saturday.

Hankins signed a three-year, $27-million contract in 2017 which included $14.5 million guaranteed. The defensive lineman lasted just one season with the team.

Under new head coach Frank Reich and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, the Colts are switching back to a 4-3 base defense in 2018. Hankins is a better fit as a 3-4 nose tackle.

The former Giants second-round pick accumulated 24 tackles and two sacks in 15 games last season.