Once training camp arrives, a "surprise" starter could emerge on defense for the Indianapolis Colts.
Throughout the defensive side of the ball, the Colts experienced heavy roster turnover this offseason, but linebacker may have seen the most.
Zaire Franklin and Germain Pratt, who led the team in snaps at the position in 2025, are no longer on the team. Presumably, CJ Allen is going to be the new MIKE linebacker for the Colts, but the starting spot next to him is very much up for grabs.
The Colts gave several players the opportunity to get reps with the ones during offseason programs, including Akeem Davis-Gaither, who is experienced and played under Lou Anarumo previously, along with Jaylon Carlies, a fairly recent draft pick.
But also in that mix is fourth-round rookie Bryce Boettcher, who, according to ESPN's Stephen Holder, saw a "significant" amount of snaps with the starters.
Throughout the defensive side of the ball, the Colts experienced heavy roster turnover this offseason, but linebacker may have seen the most.
Zaire Franklin and Germain Pratt, who led the team in snaps at the position in 2025, are no longer on the team. Presumably, CJ Allen is going to be the new MIKE linebacker for the Colts, but the starting spot next to him is very much up for grabs.
The Colts gave several players the opportunity to get reps with the ones during offseason programs, including Akeem Davis-Gaither, who is experienced and played under Lou Anarumo previously, along with Jaylon Carlies, a fairly recent draft pick.
But also in that mix is fourth-round rookie Bryce Boettcher, who, according to ESPN's Stephen Holder, saw a "significant" amount of snaps with the starters.
5 months ago
