Here's the article if you don't feel like clicking: ~~INDIANAPOLIS – When dissecting Kendall Langford’s seven-year bio in the NFL, one number might as well be in bold, all CAPS, 72-font.
It’s not a tackle-number, or sack-total that makes you re-read the sentence.
It’s this: He has appeared in all 16 games in each of his seven years and his 112 consecutive games played is the longest active streak among NFL defensive ends/tackles.
Players at 6-6 and 313 pounds, who have logged sevens seasons fighting in the trenches of the NFL, don’t have that type of durability.
Ask Langford (very quietly though) about his streak and before you can even finish your thought he’s already knocking the wooden table with his fist.
“Blessed. That isn’t nothing but the good Lord,” Langford said about his health.
“I’m going into my eighth season and I haven’t missed a game on any level, little league, high school, college, professional."
It’s a trait the Colts would obviously love to see continue in 2015.
In each of the past three seasons, the Colts have lost significant pieces along their defensive line.
Back in 2012, major depth evaporated when Fili Moala and Drake Nevis were placed on injured reserve in early November.
In 2013, new free agent signee Ricky Jean Francois battled ailments to play in just 10 games.
Last year, it was another free agent coup in Arthur Jones competing in nine contests, due to a high ankle sprain.
With Langford making the move to Indianapolis, the Colts are getting a guy who is happy to get back into a more comfortable defensive scheme.
“The 3-4 is a little more home for me and that’s what led to my ultimate decision for me,” Langford said after signing with the Colts.
While the Detroit Lions wanted Langford, the seven-year vet chose the team with his preferred defensive system.
Langford was a starter in his first six NFL seasons before playing a reserve role last year in St. Louis on one of the more talented defensive fronts in the league.
He arrives in Indy striving to taste postseason football again in his career.
Since making the playoffs with the Dolphins in 2008, Langford hasn’t played on a team that has finished .500 or better.
“I’m just excited to join such a great organization,” Langford said.
“I met the coaches and the General Manager and it just seems like one big family here. You guys have a winning tradition and I wanted to be a part of it.”~~