The Indianapolis Colts are exploring linebacker options for the upcoming NFL draft, with UCLA's Carson Schwesinger emerging as a potential pick. Schwesinger's performance indicates he could address a critical need for the Colts at linebacker, especially after losing EJ Speed and Grant Stuard in free agency. With 133 out of 144 tackle attempts converted last season and experience in special teams, his instincts and tackling aggression make him an appealing choice to line up alongside Zaire Franklin.

Draft analyst Jordan Reid points out Schwesinger's trajectory from special teams ace to starter, emphasizing his readiness for the NFL. However, competition will be fierce as the Colts also consider other prospects like Jaylon Carlies, who offers a different skill set. The Colts are in a position where they need to solidify their linebacker depth, and the draft will be pivotal in determining their future defensive alignment.

The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft with critical needs at multiple positions. The tight end position stands out, as the Colts require not only depth but also a more significant pass-catching threat; last season's group managed a mere 467 yards combined. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has graded the tight end class at a solid B, suggesting a good mix of talent that could help the Colts enhance their aerial attack.

On the offensive line, while the starters may already be on the roster, depth is a concern, particularly with Ryan Kelly's departure. PFF rates the interior offensive line at C and tackle positions at B-, indicating room for improvement. Meanwhile, the defensive line boasts impressive grades from PFF at A for both the interior and edge positions, making it a focal point for the Colts as they look to bolster their defense.

At linebacker, however, PFF has given the group a troubling D grade, categorizing it as the weakest among this draft's classes, further complicating the Colts’ strategy. The Colts aim to address these gaps effectively while factoring in the depth available at each position.

EJ Speed, former linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, has signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Houston Texans, keeping him within the AFC South. This move brings a significant change to the Colts' defensive lineup as they will be seeking a new starting linebacker alongside Zaire Franklin in the 2025 season. Speed's tenure with the Colts began as a fifth-round draft pick in 2019, where he first made his mark on special teams before stepping up as a full-time starter in 2024. His performance saw an increase in completion rate allowed, which will need addressing as the Colts head into the draft to bolster their linebacker depth.

The Indianapolis Colts are reshaping their defense with significant free agency signings, bringing in safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Charvarius Ward. The team is expected to see a youthful core emerge in 2025, bolstered by the recent acquisitions. The projected starting defense features Laiatu Latu and DeForest Buckner on the line, with Zaire Franklin and Jaylon Carlies as the linebackers in a nickel formation. In the secondary, Ward and Kenny Moore will lead the charge, complemented by Bynum and Nick Cross at safety.

While there remains a need for depth and potential draft picks could shift the dynamics further, the inclusion of new talents indicates the Colts are gearing up for a competitive season. Additionally, the draft will likely bring in fresh faces to shore up the defense, allowing Indianapolis to improve their defensive strategy and performance on the field.

Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin recently shared insights on the quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones during an appearance on Good Morning Football. Franklin expressed his admiration for Richardson, noting their bond through the challenges of last season. He emphasized the impact of competition on player growth, drawing parallels with the success of previously underperforming quarterbacks who thrived in new environments.

Franklin acknowledged that while the Colts aim for Richardson to be their starter, the addition of Jones is a strategic move to enhance the quarterback room. With Jones' potential to elevate the competition, Franklin believes this could catalyze both players' performance, leading to a more robust quarterback dynamic in Indianapolis.