The Indianapolis Colts may not be done adding to their defensive coaching staff under Lou Anarumo.
According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the Colts are “targeting” veteran defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson.
Zenitz doesn’t specify what the specific role for Henderson would be.
Chris Hewitt was added to the coaching staff recently to be the pass game coordinator and secondary coach under Anarumo. Perhaps Henderson would take on an assistant role in the secondary or he and Hewitt could each be responsible for one of the safety and cornerback positions, which is the setup Anarumo had in Cincinnati, for what it’s worth.
Last season, Henderson was the New York Giants’ defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator.
He has been with the Giants the last five seasons and interviewed for New York’s defensive coordinator role in 2024 when the team moved on from Wink Martindale.
Since getting his start as a coach in the NFL in 2007, Henderson has also had stops at Atlanta (2016-2019), Dallas (2012-2015), Cleveland (2009-2011), and with the New York Jets (2007-2008).
At each coaching stop, Henderson has worked with the defensive backs.
GM Chris Ballard was direct in his season-ending press conference about the secondary play, specifying that the Colts have to get better on the back end. Last season, the Colts ranked in the bottom third in passer rating allowed, completion rate, pass deflections, and yards per pass attempt.
Anarumo’s coaching background is rooted in the secondary and his disguise-heavy scheme can help with some of that heavy lifting when it comes to improved play. Hewitt also has extensive and impressive track record of working with defensive backs.
Now, the Colts are potentially adding another experienced voice in Henderson to the mix as well.
Getting more out of the safeties and cornerbacks is going to take some additions on Ballard’s part, but the Colts are investing heavily into this position group with their coaching staff.