One of the X-factors for the Indianapolis Colts this season will be the production they get from the pass rush, specifically from defensive end Kwity Paye and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner.
As Paye enters his third season, the hope is he will finally have the breakout campaign he’s been searching for since being selected as the No. 21 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft. With 10 sacks in two seasons, Paye is looking to reach double-digit sacks in a single season for the first time in his career.
Buy Colts TicketsHe got off to an impressive start in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, recording a sack and proving to be the third-best edge rusher in pass-rush win rate from ESPN.
Top 10 players in pass rush win rate at edge in Week 1 thus far.
(ESPN / NFL Next Gen Stats) pic.twitter.com/naJjFbfUSx
— Seth Walder (@SethWalder) September 11, 2023
Paye finished the game with four tackles (three solo), one sack and two tackles for loss. It was a strong, well-rounded game for the third-year pass rusher.
But he wasn’t the only Colts defender who thrived in getting after the quarterback in Week 1. The aforementioned Buckner also found his way into the top-10 among interior pass rushers, per ESPN.
Top 10 players in pass rush win rate at defensive tackle in Week 1 thus far.
(ESPN / NFL Next Gen Stats) pic.twitter.com/VrhtOHPtAs
— Seth Walder (@SethWalder) September 11, 2023
Buckner was constantly in the backfield against the Jaguars, and he proved he hasn’t lost a step at all. He recorded seven tackles (four solo), one sack, two quarterback hits, one tackle for loss, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery for a touchdown.
The Colts defense came out with a fire in their gut and even though they ultimately fell short in the loss, it was a very encouraging outing from the pass rush.
