Indianapolis Colts: 5 More Things to Watch for at Camp
By Evan Reller
Dec 22, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is sacked by Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Bjoern Werner (92) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Rushing the Quarterback
Can the Colts generate a pass rush without Robert Mathis? He accounted for 19.5 of the teams 42 sacks in 2013.
Jerrell Freeman, a middle linebacker, was second on the team with 5.5. Erik Walden, the other outside linebacker, had just three sacks last season.
The Colts need Bjoern Werner to settle into the position this season and become a reliable backup or third down player. He’ll get his shot early with Mathis suspended for four games. If the Colts can’t reach the opposing QB, this secondary will breakdown awfully fast (especially against Manning in the season opener).
Linebackers Andy Studebaker and Josh McNary both had positive pass rush grades, but each had fewer than 100 snaps last season. Arthur Jones might be a viable option as he had a very high grade with the Ravens last season.
Expect to see some more exotic packages and blitz schemes as the Colts try to manufacture some pressure. It would not be surprising to see Mathis play very little in the preseason as the team tries to A) protect him from unnecessary injury, and B) get other plays some reps with the first team defense.