The Indianapolis Colts proved to be one of the more unpredictable teams in the 2024 NFL season, ending with a record of 8-9.
Even though the Colts ended with a record under .500, they did have an opportunity to secure the AFC South, but they fell short in the season’s closing weeks.
Offensively, head coach Shane Steichen struggled to find a rhythm for the team while Anthony Richardson appeared shaky as a passer.
Following the decision to bench Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco, Steichen ultimately returned to the second-year quarterback, and the team then soared from that point onward.
Nonetheless, defensively, the squad was disorganized, as they performed poorly in all three zones of the field.
To assist in strengthening the defense’s core, Indianapolis is said to be bringing on James Bettcher as their new linebackers coach, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
“The #Colts are bringing on James Bettcher to serve as their linebackers coach, according to a source.” An experienced addition for the new DC Lou Anarumo, who had Bettcher in the same role for the last three seasons in Cincinnati,” reported Pelissero.
Bettcher will team up with new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo as they aim to revamp a Colts defense that urgently requires fresh direction and instruction.
Bettcher offers extensive experience on the defensive side of football, having served multiple roles for various teams.
Currently, in Indianapolis, Bettcher will focus on developing the young linebackers and guiding them to a level where they can contribute to making stops more reliably.
It will be intriguing to observe how the Colts play in that area of the field when the 2025 NFL season starts.