The Indianapolis Colts are opening up training camp on July 26. When the defense hits the field there will be a focus on how the young secondary is performing and the health of their leader Shaquille Leonard.
Most of the starting defense is set entering the preseason but the two boundary cornerback spots will be the battle to keep an eye on. We took a look at projecting the offense earlier.
Using the nickel package as the base defense, here’s a projection of the Colts’ starting defensive unit ahead of training camp:
DE Kwity Paye
The expectations are high for Kwity Paye entering Year 3 of his NFL career. He’ll have his eyes set on getting to double-digit sack numbers for the first time.
DT DeForest Buckner
The staple of the Colts defensive line is entering his fourth season with the franchise. He’s only missed one game in his time in Indianapolis which was due to COVID-19.
DT Grover Stewart
Big Grove is coming off the best season of his six-year career. He is entering the final year of his contract so we could see a possible second extension for him prior to the season opener.
DE Samson Ebukam
Samson Ebukam is taking over the LEO role in Gus Bradley’s defense after spending the past two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. In 2022 he had a career-high in TFLs (seven), QB Hits (13), and sacks (five).
LB Shaquille Leonard
If Leonard is 100% healthy and returns to his All-Pro form then the Colts will have one of the best linebacker tandems in the league. But the questions remain regarding his health in a big way.
LB Zaire Franklin
Zaire Franklin is coming off the best season of his career after taking advantage of an opportunity with Shaquille Leonard out of the lineup. If Leonard is 100% healthy and returns to his All-Pro form then the Colts will have one of the best linebacker tandems in the league.
CB Kenny Moore II
After hearing his name in potential trade talks this offseason, Kenny Moore II is back for his seventh season in Indianapolis. The veteran’s voice in the young cornerback room will prove vital for the secondary.
CB Julius Brents
The second-round pick has a great opportunity to make an impact in his rookie season with the Colts. The expectation is that he should be ready for camp after missing OTAs due to wrist surgery.
CB Dallis Flowers
It’s an open competition for both boundary cornerback spots on the depth chart. I do expect Darius Rush to push for a role but it’s Dallis Flowers’ experience in Gus Bradley’s scheme that gives him the upper hand to start the season.
S Rodney Thomas II
The 2022 seventh-round pick made a surprising impact in Year 1 and led the team with four interceptions. Rodney Thomas II earned the starting free safety role entering 2023.
S Julius Blackmon
Julian Blackmon is switching to strong safety after the emergence of Rodney Thomas II. Eyes will be on how he’s adjusting to the position to start training camp.
