With a new coordinator, new free-agent pickups, and depending on what draft moves are made, the Colts’ defense could be elite in 2025.
Last season, the Indianapolis Colts’ defense was far from spectacular. But it could be a different story in 2025. The team has made some outstanding pickups in free agency this offseason. Plus, they could add a few more great defenders in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Colts’ defense gave up 361.2 yards per game in 2024 (29th in the league). In their embarrassing Week 17 loss to the New York Giants, backup quarterback Drew Lock threw for 309 yards and four touchdowns. Yeah, that’s not good at all. Will things get better next season?
The Indianapolis Colts Could Feature a Top-Notch Defense in 2025
Key Losses, Additions, and Possible Pickups
This offseason, the Colts lost Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency. The defensive end signed a three-year, $48 million contract with the Chicago Bears. Indy’s defense will surely miss Odeyingbo, who recorded 16.5 sacks during his time in the Circle City.
The Colts also lost linebacker E.J. Speed to the Houston Texans. In addition, starting safety Julian Blackmon is currently a free agent and is unlikely to re-sign with Indianapolis.
While the Colts lost a few key free agents, they also made a few excellent additions. They signed defensive backs Charvarius Ward, Camryn Bynum, and Corey Ballentine. They signed defensive tackle Neville Gallimore as well.
It will be interesting to see what defenders the Colts add in the draft. NFL.com’s Chad Reuter listed linebacker Jihaad Campbell (14th overall) and edge-rusher Jordan Burch (45th overall) as the players the team will draft with their first two picks:
“Campbell’s ability to defend the run, move in coverage, and rush the passer bolsters the team’s linebacker corps after the departure of E.J. Speed. Burch’s 6-4, 279-pound frame makes up for the loss of Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency, as well; these selections would give Indy two players who could help make the Colts defense the “all-time unit” leading tackler Zaire Franklin desires. Look for the team to get value in the third or fourth round at two dire positions of need: tight end and interior offensive line
Both players would be ideal picks as they can help the Colts’ defense.
Can the Defense Be Elite?
The Colts’ horrible defense last season led to the team parting ways with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley and replacing him with Lou Anarumo, who was previously the defensive coordinator of the Cincinnati Bengals and was instrumental in the team reaching Super Bowl LVI. Despite losing that game against the Los Angeles Rams, Anarumo’s defense sacked the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes four times in the AFC Championship Game that year.
Anarumo will now look to improve the Colts’ D in 2025. His secondary includes talented cornerbacks like Ward, Jaylon Jones, and Kenny Moore II. Hopefully, JuJu Brents, who has struggled with injuries, can stay healthy. Bynum and Nick Cross will form a solid safety duo. Veterans Deforest Buckner and Grover Stewart are one of the league’s top defensive tackle combos. And you can’t leave out quality defenders like Zaire Franklin, Kwity Paye, Laiatu Latu, and Samson Ebukam. Plus, if Indy can draft defenders like Cambpell and Burch, the sky is the limit. Yes, the Colts’ defense can be an elite unit in 2025.