Linebacker was already a big offseason need for the Indianapolis Colts. Now, without Zaire Franklin, that need is massive.
On Saturday, it was reported that the Colts traded Franklin to the Green Bay Packers for defensive tackle Colby Wooden. The addition of Wooden gives the Colts’ defensive tackle rotation a boost, but the already-thin linebacker unit took a hit.
There is now very little experience on the Colts roster at this position.
Addressing the linebacker in free agency has gone from being a priority to a must. Here are four options for the Colts.
Nakobe Dean, Eagles
Dean has been an effective blitzer in his career and possesses the athleticism and playmaking abilities to patrol the middle of the field. In coverage, he’s allowed 11.6 yards per catch over his career with an interception and three pass breakups over the last two seasons. Dean has had to navigate injuries, however, in his career.
Leo Chenal, Chiefs
Chenal has been in a rotational role within the Kansas City defense, but with his opportunities, he has been a very good tackler and strong run defender. He’s allowed just 8.7 yards per catch in coverage with an interception and one pass breakup, according to PFF.
Tremaine Edmunds, Bears
The 27-year-old linebacker has spent the last three seasons in Chicago, where he’s been a sound tackler, and this past year was one of PFF’s higher graded run defenders at the linebacker position. Edmunds has also had really good ball production in his career, which includes totaling nine interceptions over the last three seasons and 18 pass breakups over the last four years.
Devin Lloyd, Jaguars
If the Colts want to take a big swing and go after arguably the top option, they could pursue Lloyd. Last season, Lloyd was named a second-team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler. He did a bit of everything for the Jaguars’ defense, impacting the game as a blitzer, in coverage, and as a run defender. The Colts will need to clear a lot more cap space to sign Lloyd.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 4 free agent linebacker options for Colts after trading Zaire Franklin
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
