The biggest challenge for the Indianapolis Colts last year outside of moving the ball on offense was generating a consistent pass rush.
They have invested ample resources into their defensive line but were still unable to get pressure on the quarterback.
One of the main factors behind their defensive line struggles was the injury sustained by Samson Ebukam.
The former Los Angeles Rams draft pick was the best pass rusher for the Colts in 2023, recording 9.5 sacks.
Unfortunately, before he had a chance to build on his breakout season he tore his Achilles in training camp last year.
Now, with a comeback on the horizon Ebukam is feeling more confident than ever before.
The fourth-round draft pick in 2017 has either increased or plateaued his sack total in every season of his career up to this point.
Indianapolis committed nearly $10 million per year for Ebukam’s services so they are banking on a strong bounce back this year.
The Nigerian-born edge rusher discussed his injury and the recovery process with Colts media recently and it sounds like he’s mentally and physically ready.
Although he admitted some points of the rehab were difficult, he had this to say, “Rehab’s good right now… I think definitely by the end of OTAs I’ll be in a great spot.”
An Achilles tear is historically the most debilitating injury an NBA or NFL athlete can suffer, so the fact that Ebukam is set to return less than a year after the injury is miraculous.
For some players it can take a few months to reach the level they were at before the injury, if they are ever the same at all.
The Colts hope Ebukam can revert to his pre-injury form which would be a massive boost to the defensive line.