Second-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies is poised for a significant role in the Indianapolis Colts' defense as the team seeks to fill gaps left by departures. General Manager Chris Ballard has high hopes for Carlies, who transitioned from safety to linebacker and showcased impressive tackling skills last season.

Despite facing injuries that limited his appearances, Carlies recorded a remarkable 34 tackles out of 38 attempts, demonstrating strong coverage capabilities. With the Colts lacking depth at linebacker, Carlies' development could be pivotal for their defensive strategy, complementing Zaire Franklin and potentially alleviating concerns about the upcoming draft.

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.

With EJ Speed's departure to Houston, the Indianapolis Colts are on a quest to solidify their linebacker corps. Jaylon Carlies, a 2024 rookie, is in contention for the starting role alongside Zaire Franklin, bringing coverage skills from his safety background. However, Colts GM Chris Ballard emphasizes the need for competition, suggesting that the team may explore draft options to enhance the position.

Among potential linebacker prospects are Demetrius Knight from South Carolina, who showcased impressive coverage statistics, and Carson Schwesinger from UCLA, known for his tackling reliability. Chris Paul from Ole Miss and Jihaad Campbell from Alabama also present intriguing options, with solid pass-rush capabilities. Barrett Carter from Clemson rounds out the list, bringing substantial experience and versatility. As the Colts focus on drafting well, these candidates may help fill the void left by Speed.

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.

The Indianapolis Colts faced challenges in the 2024 season, yet several players emerged as foundational pieces for the future. Wide receiver Alec Pierce showcased his skills as a premier deep threat, tallying impressive stats with 824 yards and seven touchdowns. Linebacker Jaylon Carlies impressed with his coverage abilities, while Josh Downs continued to prove reliable as a pass-catcher, hinting at a breakout season ahead. Defensive end Laiatu Latu showed promise in his rookie year, and safety Nick Cross emerged as a key defensive player. Quarterback Anthony Richardson's development remains crucial for the Colts' success.