"That they want to come back to the Indianapolis Colts is a given. But this Independence Day, with the NFL lockout nearing four months, some Colts expect labor uncertainty may eventually give way to them having the freedom to explore free agency.

One consideration in collective bargaining negotiations would declare players with four years of service as unrestricted for purposes of free agency. That would affect several Colts, including running back Joseph Addai, linebacker Clint Session, offensive tackle Charlie Johnson and safety Melvin Bullitt.

If restricted based on the previous CBA, the Colts would have the first crack at re-signing these players. They still might -- some contend teams should get that chance -- but it's one of many unknowns.

"From what I'm hearing, when a deal gets done, it will be four years," said Johnson, who has started 54 of 73 games, all with the Colts. "As far as me coming back or being gone, I don't know. I will just take it as it happens.

"I'm working out, trying to get better and hoping a deal gets done. But I can't concern myself with 'what ifs' at this point."

Johnson and his wife welcomed their second son in January. That has kept them close to their Brownsburg home. He would prefer to stay put.

"It's not just for me, but any player who starts out with a team and is with them for four, five or six years, you want to stay to have that continuity. Especially in Indianapolis, where we've won 10 games for nine years, why wouldn't you want to stay in that situation?

"I would like to be here. I like winning 10 games a year. I like going to Super Bowls. I want to win football games and get back to the Super Bowl. Whatever it is that I need to do to accomplish that, I'll do it. There's no ego with me."

While the Colts invested their first two draft selections on big offensive tackles, Johnson has been versatile and durable in his five-year career. He has played tackle and guard, and has played hurt. Last season, he missed only one game despite injuries to his right foot, right toe, back and right pectoral muscle."