Hankins to Colts not looking likely

INDIANAPOLIS – When the Colts hosted Giants free agent defensive lineman Johnathan Hankins for a visit on Tuesday, it presented an opportunity for Indianapolis to acquire a player who is, arguably, the NFL’s top remaining free agent.

But while that window hasn’t completely closed, it does not appear Hankins is destined to don the horseshoe.

Hankins left Indianapolis without agreeing to a contract, and an NFL source with knowledge of the situation said a deal with Hankins does not appear likely.

Hankins seems a good fit for the Colts, who could use a jolt at nose tackle – Hankins’ preferred position. But while the football fit seems ideal, what’s less clear is whether Hankins is a financial fit for the Colts. He reportedly has been seeking an annual salary on par with some of the top defensive linemen in the NFL. But given the fact he remains on the market a full month after the start of free agency, teams appear to be resistant to obliging.

Hankins’ best option might be a long-term deal from the Giants that, according to ESPN.com, remains on the table. He recorded 43 total tackles for the Giants in 2016 and co-owner John Mara said during the recent NFL owners meetings, “We still very much like him on our team. … Hopefully we’ll get it worked out. But I have no idea whether that will happen or not.”

If the Colts do, in fact, move on, the Giants might now be able to bring the Hankins situation to a conclusion.

For the Colts, look for defensive line to remain a position of great interest in this month's draft. The team faces both on- and off-field issues. Nose tackle David Parry is facing multiple felonies in an Arizona criminal case while defensive ends Kendall Langford and Henry Anderson battled knee issues for the duration of the 2016 season.

Follow Colts Insider Stephen Holder on Twitter: @HolderStephen.