INDIANAPOLIS — Chris Ballard began his makeover of the Colts' defense Thursday by jettisoning the unit's erstwhile leader.
Inside linebacker D'Qwell Jackson — who made 44 starts and 395 tackles over three seasons in Indianapolis — was released in the first major transaction for the team's new general manager.
Jackson, 33, was a respected voice in the locker room, but he was suspended for the final four games last season after violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy.
His departure saves the Colts $5.5 million in salary cap space. It's also likely just the opening salvo in Ballard's quest to make Indianapolis' defense younger and more athletic.