Indianapolis Colts

Colts continue bulking defense, sign LB Sean Spence

Published Mar. 20, 2017 3:15 p.m. ET

Sean Spence told reporters he wants to compete for a starting job and change the atmosphere of the Colts' defense.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis has signed inside linebacker Sean Spence, the latest move in a major defensive overhaul.

In a conference call Monday, Spence told reporters he wants to compete for a starting job and change the atmosphere of the Colts' defense.

He'll have plenty of help.

Spence joins a free agent class that includes outside linebackers Jabaal Sheard, John Simon and Barkevious Mingo, nose tackle Al Woods and defensive end Margus Hunt. Indy also has re-signed defensive back Darius Butler, and general manager Chris Ballard may not be finished yet.

Spence was Pittsburgh's third-round pick in 2012. After four seasons with the Steelers, he played with Tennessee last season and had 77 tackles and three sacks -- both career highs.