Many have focused on the Indianapolis Colts quarterback battle between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. However, the Colts’ defense has experienced change and needs improvement for the upcoming season.
The Colts’ defense was below average in 2024, which cost them games. Indy’s defense struggled with tackling, giving up a league-high 1,183 yards after missed tackles, according to Next Gen Stats.
Indianapolis finished the 2024 season with the 29th-best defense. A defense that allowed 361.2 yards per game and 25.1 points per game.
Multiple Colts defenders, like Zaire Franklin and former defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, tried to fix the tackling issues. Their efforts failed, and the Colts’ defense continued to struggle. Additionally, the Colts’ defense was consistently out of position and gave up points after being on the field for long drives.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard needed to make a change defensively. Ballard hired Lou Anarumo to help improve the Colts’ defense.
Anarumo brings 36 years of coaching experience to the Colts defense and was the Bengals’ defensive coordinator during their Super Bowl run.
Unlike Bradley, who employed a Cover-Three style of defense (one high safety deep and two corners on the outside) and a lot of zone, Anarumo is an aggressive defensive mind. He is creative and changes the defensive coverages weekly. The Colts’ defense should be able to attack opposing offenses better and challenge the quarterbacks they face in 2025.
The Colts’ defense has experienced significant changes. Long-time special-teams ace and rangy linebacker EJ Speed went to the Houston Texans, safety Julian Blackmon hasn’t re-signed, and defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo signed with the Chicago Bears.
Indianapolis signed cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Cameryn Bynum to strengthen its defense. Ward has recorded 435 tackles, three forced fumbles, and 10 interceptions in his career. Bynum has recorded 342 tackles, three forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and eight interceptions.
Ward and Bynum bring leadership and high defensive intelligence to the Colts’ defense. Both players have been a part of strong defenses like the San Francisco 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings.
The Colts have talented young players on defense. Adding Ward and Mooney could unlock potential and help the Colts’ defense emerge from the NFL’s graveyard.
I think the Colts’ defense is going to play a significant role this season. Indianapolis doesn’t have the best quarterback situation in the NFL, and whoever starts has a lot to prove. The Colts’ defense will improve because of the defensive assets brought in. Anarumo is a smart defensive coordinator, and Ward and Mooney are vital pieces.
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