Gosder Cherilus (78) was cut by the Colts. (Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports)
The Indianapolis Colts released right tackle Gosder Cherilus, who started all 29 games he appeared in for the team over the past two seasons.
The seven-year veteran signed a five-year, $35 million deal in 2013 that included $16.5 million in guaranteed money. However, the 31-year-old struggled through nagging injuries last season before undergoing offseason knee surgery and missing the team’s offseason program. He availability for training camp was uncertain, and that is after a 2014 season in which he allowed 6.0 sacks, 15 hits and 27 quarterback hurries.
Cherilus’ release saves the Colts around $4.1 million in salary cap space, but it also increases concerns about the offensive line.
Anthony Castonzo at left tackle and veteran free agent addition Todd Herremans at right guard are the only solidified spots entering training camp. The Colts worked starting left guard Jack Mewhort at right tackle during OTAs and could figure into the mix to replace Cherilus. That would open a void at left guard with several players competing, while Khaled Holmes and Jon Harrison will battle for the starting center job.
