In need of pass-rush help, the Indianapolis Colts signed veteran defensive end Carl Lawson to the practice squad on Wednesday.
"Just communication with people in different parts of the organization," Lawson said of signing with the Colts, via Locked on Colts. "I really appreciate them giving me the opportunity to come in here and help win games."
This addition comes while Micheal Clemons is on injured reserve and Arden Key is expected to miss some time with a hamstring injury.
At what is currently a fairly young position group for the Colts, with second-year edge defender Jaylahn Tuimoloau and rookies Caden Curry and George Gumbs all expected to take on larger roles, Lawson adds some experience to this unit.
Over eight seasons, Lawson, 31, has appeared
in 90 games, which includes making 34 starts. During that span, he's totaled 32 sacks and 32 tackles for loss.
Lawson now reunites with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The two spent a few years together in Cincinnati, where Lawson had his most productive season in 2020.
"I think any part of football is like you have a type of rapport with that person," Lawson said of joining Anarumo once again. "I probably played some of my best football playing with Lou back in my career, so it was a no-brainer for me."
Carl Lawson Talks About Signing with Indianapolis Colts pic.twitter.com/3HElu4014i
— Jake Arthur (@JakeArthurNFL) October 7, 2026
Lawson played just 26 snaps last year with the Ravens and called the 2025 season a "rest year," which he said did wonders for his body. This includes feeling faster and more explosive.
While on the practice squad, Lawson can be elevated to the game-day roster up to three times. It remains to be seen how quickly he will be called upon to give the pass rush depth a boost, but with whatever is needed, Lawson says he'll be ready.
"I'm ready to go as far as whatever opportunity I can to help the team win and do whatever role I need to do," said Lawson.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Veteran pass rusher Carl Lawson details decision to sign with Colts
