Linebacker hasn't gotten a ton of attention, but it is one of the larger needs for the Indianapolis Colts. However, will the lack of depth at this position impact the GM Chris Ballard's draft plans?
The general consensus among several draft analysts seems to be that this year's linebacker class overall isn't all that deep.
Pro Football Focus gave this year's linebacker class a D+. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com would rank that position group ninth out of 11, and on Daniel Jeremiah's latest big board, only two linebackers were in the top 50.
So for the Colts, who need to find a new starter to line up next to Zaire Franklin, the lack of overall options at this position group could push them to address the position early on in the draft, knowing that the longer they wait, there may end up being little or no options when it comes to finding more immediate help.
Whereas, with positions like tight end or the defensive line, two of the deeper groups in this year's class, if not addressed right away, the chances of finding more immediate help at those spots are likely greater.
The argument for going against this approach is that linebacker is not a premium position, and the Colts have been successful in developing mid and even late-round picks into contributors. But at the end of the day, a need is a need, and if there is less talent to draw from, that can affect how a team goes about navigating the draft.
With that said, perhaps the answer that the Colts are looking for at linebacker is already on the roster in Jaylon Carlies, who GM Chris Ballard spoke highly of and believes is an ascending player. However, with the emphasis this year being on creating competition, the Colts shouldn't bank on Carlies--who has 242 career defensive snaps--stepping into that role.
For more on specific prospects at the linebacker position, you can find five early-round options for the Colts
Topics in this Story
