Colts Reclaim DT Eric Johnson Off Waivers, Release Safety Marcel Dabo
The Indianapolis Colts made several roster adjustments on Thursday, highlighted by the re-addition of defensive tackle Eric Johnson II. Claimed off waivers from the New England Patriots, Johnson returns to a familiar setting in Indianapolis. In a corresponding move, the team released safety Marcel Dabo. Additionally, the Colts designated tight end Maximilian Mang as an Exempt/International Player, continuing their commitment to global talent development.
Johnson Returns to Indianapolis
Eric Johnson II, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 299 pounds, is no stranger to the Colts organization. Originally drafted by Indianapolis in the fifth round (159th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Missouri State, Johnson played two seasons with the Colts before spending the 2024 campaign with the Patriots.
Across his three-year NFL career, Johnson has appeared in 39 games. He has recorded a total of 35 tackles, including nine solo stops, along with one sack, one tackle for loss, and one fumble recovery. During his time with New England in 2024, Johnson played in 11 games and contributed 17 tackles, two of which were solo. Now back with the Colts, he offers valuable experience and depth to a defensive line that is constantly evolving.
Johnson’s familiarity with the Colts’ defensive system and coaching staff could give him a leg up in training camp competition. His size and strength in the interior defensive line could make him a rotational piece or a solid backup option as the team prepares for the 2025 season.
Colts Part Ways With Dabo
In order to make room for Johnson, the Colts waived safety Marcel Dabo. Measuring 6-foot and weighing 208 pounds, Dabo originally joined the Colts as an undrafted free agent in May 2022. While he never played in a regular-season game, Dabo spent the past three years on Indianapolis’ practice squad, developing within the system and contributing in a scout team role.
Before entering the NFL, Dabo built his football résumé in Europe. He played for the Stuttgart Surge in the European League of Football (ELF), where he lined up as both a cornerback and kick returner. During his stint with Stuttgart, he tallied 28 tackles and intercepted one pass. His performance earned him a spot on the 2021 ELF All-Star team and the league’s Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, highlighting his promise as a young international player.
Although Dabo’s time with the Colts has come to an end for now, his experience and athleticism may keep him on the radar for other teams, particularly those looking to invest in developmental prospects with international roots.
Maximilian Mang Receives International Exemption
The Colts also made an additional roster move involving tight end Maximilian Mang, who was designated as an Exempt/International Player. This designation is part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program, which allows international players to join practice squads with additional roster flexibility.
Mang, who is 6-foot-6 and 263 pounds, signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent earlier this month on May 9, 2025. He played his college football at Syracuse from 2021 to 2024, appearing in 50 games with 12 starts. Over his college career, Mang caught nine passes for 60 yards and one touchdown. In his senior season in 2024, he saw action in 12 games, starting two, and hauled in a single five-yard reception.
Prior to his collegiate career, Mang played for the Berlin Rebels in the German Football League (GFL), Germany’s top-level American football league. Originally from Brandenburg, Germany, Mang has experience playing both tight end and defensive end, bringing versatility and international experience to the Colts’ locker room.
Looking Ahead
These roster moves indicate that the Colts are actively shaping their squad ahead of training camp and the 2025 season. Reuniting with Eric Johnson gives them a known commodity on the defensive line, while moving on from Dabo reflects the competitive nature of NFL roster management. Meanwhile, Mang’s international designation underscores the franchise’s continued involvement in developing global talent.
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