Blue
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- Mar 19, 2019
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THE SKINNY:
The Colts’ linebacker group in 2019 features plenty of returning firepower, while several rookies are also expected to make major contributions.
The headliner of the group, of course, is Darius Leonard, who is coming off one of the best seasons by a rookie linebacker in NFL history; a 2018 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and a First-Team All-Pro selection, Leonard last year led the league with 163 tackles (setting a franchise single-season record), while adding 12.0 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, eight passes defensed, two interceptions, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
He’ll be joined once again by third-year veteran Anthony Walker, who also had a solid performance in 2018 with 105 tackles to go along with 1.0 sacks and an interception.
The new kids on the block are second-round pick Ben Banogu, who can also play off the edge, third-round pick Bobby Okereke and fifth-round pick E.J. Speed, all of whom bring elite speed and athleticism.
Second-year linebackers Matthew Adams, Zaire Franklin and Skai Moore also return to add quality depth in 2019, while Ahmad Thomas and Tre Thomas look to take advantage of their reps during camp and the preseason to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.