Stephen Holder

stephen.holder@indystar.com

When the Colts signed defensive lineman Arthur Jones to a massive $33 million contract, what was never established was the position the prized free agent would play.

Would he play defensive tackle? End? Nose tackle? A little of each?

With today's OTA workout open for media access, we're starting to get a sense of the Colts' plans for Jones.

Based on what we observed during practice, as well as learned during time spent in the locker room, here's the current plan:

In the Colts' base defense, Jones is lining up as the three-technique, otherwise known as defensive tackle. Joining him right now in the first unit are Josh Chapman at nose tackle and Cory Redding at defensive end.

The Colts are taking a slightly different approach in the nickel defense. In that lineup, Jones is playing nose tackle, lining head up on the center. The defensive tackle in nickel is Ricky Jean Francois and the defensive end is Redding.

Obviously, the guy most impacted here is Jean Francois. He was the starting three technique last season but likely has been bumped by the addition of Jones. That's not stunning.

But you should keep a couple of important points in mind. For one, this is still just the first week of OTAs, not the middle of training camp. Things can and do change over time. Furthermore, the nickel defense now accounts for more than half of some teams' defensive snaps, so Jean Francois is going to be plenty busy. Remember, the Colts open with the Broncos and Eagles, two teams that push the envelope on offense and will throw the ball with abandon.

Still, even though it's early, you can rest assured Jones won't be coming off the field much, if at all.

Elsewhere...

* Among the other observations at today's voluntary practice, was who wasn't in attendance.

By all appearances, receiver Reggie Wayne and safety LaRon Landry weren't here.

Among those who were present but not participating because of presumed injuries: receiver T.Y. Hilton, fullback Stanley Havili, linebacker Cam Johnson, offensive lineman Thomas Austin, guard Donald Thomas and tight end Eric Swoope.

Donte Moncrief was not in attendance, but that's because he is attending the NFLPA's Rookie Premiere event in Los Angeles.

* Second-round pick Jack Mewhort was playing left guard with the second-team offense, but don't read too much into that. He's likely still learning the offense. With Thomas out, Lance Louis was running with the first team at left guard, for what it's worth.