Cleared for training camp has Ebukam feeling good.
Samson Ebukam missed all of 2024 with a devastating Achilles injury during training camp. While no one wished for him to be injured, it wasn’t a league-wide story. Outside of Indianapolis, and even within, Ebukam isn’t a name that comes up often. Make no mistake about it, however, the Indianapolis Colts missed him dearly as his absence left a giant hole on their roster. Everyone is glad he is back.
Ebukam was one of those signings that got almost no attention when Chris Ballard picked him up in free agency in 2023. A name that flashed across the screen as a depth signing that very few, outside of the hardcore fans knew much about at all. That was the offseason, though. By the time the 2023 season had ended, Ebukam certainly had more name recognition in the state of Indiana. With 9.5 sacks, 54 pressures, and two forced fumbles, it was hard to not pay attention to his game. He helped create a historically dominant front for the franchise, and his absence was felt last year as that group took a slide.
Ebukam is heathy and ready to roll for training camp. While he still isn’t going to garner much attention, getting that type of production back on the field is a huge plus. He will be part of a pass rushing rotation with Paye, Latu, and Tuimoloau. Though they may not be the most dominant unit in the league, they could be formidable. At least there will be fresh bodies with high motors to throw at the opposition. Having Ebukam’s ability and leadership back could go a long way to getting the defensive front closer to its 2023 iteration.
Missing an entire season can be rough on a player, but Ebukam appears to be putting that behind him and is focused on the future. That future could be bright if he can match or even exceed his 2023 numbers. Do that and this front will be extremely hard to handle with the middle locked down and strong fresh bodies coming off the edge. Look for Ebukam to be ready when training camp starts and don’t be surprised if he becomes more of a household name in Indiana.