Key Member of the Super Bowl LIV Run Shocks NFL After Becoming a Free Agent, Declares He Wants to Join the Indianapolis Colts at Any Cost: Even as a Backup

Indianapolis, Indiana – The NFL was hit with surprise waves this week after veteran guard Laken Tomlinson — a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers’ Super Bowl LIV run — officially entered free agency and immediately delivered one of the most unexpected declarations of the season.
No search for a final big contract.
No demands for a starting role.
No attempt to jump onto a ready-made contender.

Instead, Tomlinson made his intentions unmistakably clear:

He wants to become an Indianapolis Colt — no matter what it takes.

Speaking publicly for the first time since being released by Houston, Tomlinson said he has admired the Colts for years, praising the franchise’s resilience, the blue-collar mentality of the Horseshoe, and the unwavering dedication of Colts Nation. He described Indianapolis as “one of the most authentic football cities in the league” — a place where effort, loyalty, and heart matter as much as talent.

Tomlinson emphasized that he is not asking for a guaranteed starting job.
Not asking for a premium deal.
He simply wants the chance to block for Anthony Richardson, to learn the Colts’ offensive identity, and to run out of the Lucas Oil tunnel while the entire stadium echoes with the roar of Colts Nation.

Then came the quote that exploded across social media:

“I just want one chance to wear that Horseshoe, to feel the roar of Colts Nation, and to fight for this city even if it’s only one snap. If Indianapolis needs me in any role — even as a backup — I’ll take it. I just want to be part of what they’re building.”

Within minutes, the statement went viral.
Colts fans flooded timelines with support, calling Tomlinson “a veteran who understands what it means to respect the Horseshoe.” Several former Colts linemen noted that his desire to join the team reflects something rare in today’s NFL: choosing culture over money, and heart over ego.

For Indianapolis, the timing couldn’t be better. The Colts have prioritized building a tough, physical, disciplined offensive line to protect their franchise quarterback, and a veteran like Tomlinson — with 170+ starts, a Pro Bowl selection, and Super Bowl experience — fits the blueprint perfectly.

Tomlinson isn’t simply seeking a new contract.
He’s seeking a home, a team whose identity resonates with who he is: tough, accountable, unselfish, and relentlessly committed.

Whether general manager Chris Ballard decides to bring him in is still unknown.
But one thing is already clear:

Laken Tomlinson has chosen the Colts —
and Colts Nation is already embracing the idea of choosing him back.