Colts sign DT Banks, waive WR Hazel

The Indianapolis Colts added depth to their defensive line by signing free-agent defensive tackle Brandon Banks, the team announced Thursday. The Colts waived injured wide receiver Matt Hazel in a corresponding move. Hazel will revert to injured reserve if he clears waivers. Banks spent time on the Washington Redskins' active roster and practice squad during his rookie season in 2017. He recorded one solo tackle in one game with the Redskins, with whom he originally signed as an undrafted free agent on May 4, 2017. The 6-foot-3, 267-pound Banks collected 132 tackles, 4.5 sacks, eight passes defensed and one interception in 45 collegiate games at North Carolina-Charlotte. Banks earned Honorable Mention All-Conference USA recognition as a senior in 2016. Banks will likely battle Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Tomasi Laulile for a roster spot. Hazel had rejoined the Colts after spending time on the team's active roster and practice squad last season. The 26-year-old had one reception for one yard in a Sept. 10 game against the Los Angeles Rams. The 6-1, 195-pound Hazel also spent time on the Cleveland Browns' practice squad in 2017. Hazel has appeared in nine career games (one start) in his time with the Browns (2017), Colts (2017), Redskins (2016), Buffalo Bills (2016) and Miami Dolphins (2014-15).