Is Sergio Brown an Upgrade Over LaRon Landry?

Nov 24, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Indianapolis Colts safety

(38) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Colts 40-11. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts are heading into their Week 5 game against the Baltimore Ravens with a brand new starting strong safety. LaRon Landry was suspended for four game due to PED usage, which paves the way for Sergio Brown to pick up his fourth career start. Brown may not have the experience that Landry does, but is it possible that he could actually be an upgrade for the Colts’ defense?

Landry was signed to a sizable contract to help lead the Colts’ secondary, but he has done everything but live up to that role. He has become a very shaky tackler, and quite simply hasn’t been a leader either. His teammates view him more of a loner than a team player, and that has been an issue through his first couple seasons so far.

One of Brown’s best aspects to his game is his ability to make plays on the football. Landry quite simply doesn’t have that ability, and his fellow defensive backs don’t trust him in coverage. Brown may not end up making a ton of plays, but he will provide a lot more stability in the defensive backfield and will also bring a lot of energy to the field which is always good.

It’s going to be very interesting to see what Brown is able to do with his chance, as he could be playing for time on the field in the future as well. If he is able to come in and put up big numbers and improve the Colts’ secondary, he might get a chance to take over Landry’s job. The Colts will have to see quite a bit before they give Landry’s starting job away, but there is a possibility that Brown could force their hand.

Indianapolis is facing a very difficult opponent on Brown’s first game, especially with the way that Steve Smith has been playing. Brown will be asked to be a sure tackler and make some plays on the football. He has shown the ability to do that in the past when he has gotten a chance to play, and you can expect to see him step up to the task once again this week.