With a new look comes new reasons to anticipate positive results.
The Indianapolis Colts defense got a makeover during the offseason. From a unit that struggled mightily in 2024, expectations are that this could be a strength in 2025. From treading water to a source of optimism, there is plenty to be excited for this year.
A New Look Secondary
The secondary has some new faces as Chris Ballard and his team worked to fill some of the largest holes on the roster. Camryn Bynum and Charvarius Ward were the two greatest offseason prizes for the Colts. Their impact in the secondary should be immense and limit receivers from absolutely torching the defense through the air. Their veteran presence and high ability should be more than enough to vault this unit forward.
Lou Anarumo
Fans complained about Gus Bradley’s vanilla defense that lacked adequate pressure. Anarumo thrives on different looks. Disguising pressure and making an offense believe pressure is coming, moving out of it, and vice versa, are hallmarks of Anarumo’s defenses. A point of emphasis will be high levels of communication which will reduce the amount of blown assignments and missed tackles. Overall, expect a more disciplined unit that is highly aggressive, smart, and difficult for offenses to anticipate.
Defensive Front
Health was the problem last year as key starters missed time. After dominating in 2023, those injuries caused a major step back. With a healthy unit being led by DeForest Buckner, expect them to get back to form. Second-year defensive end Laiatu Latu should make a leap while adding more talent with second-round pick JT Tuimoloau can’t hurt. Generating more pressure upfront will be key. This unit should be a major strength for the Colts this year.
The defense won’t be perfect, but it should be much better than last year. Adding key personnel to match what the new coordinator wants to implement will allow for more aggressive and exotic schemes which should go a long way toward success. Pair that with a strong physical front and all the pieces are there. Putting it together and producing on the field is all that’s left. Do that and 2025 is going to look much better.