Colts experiment with linebacker combinations during minicamp
Indianapolis Colts rotate players at the linebacker position during minicamp to determine the best starting lineup following significant roster turnover.
The Indianapolis Colts are utilising their minicamp period to evaluate linebacker combinations following substantial roster turnover. With former leaders Zaire Franklin and Germaine Pratt departing, the team has integrated new additions including free agent Akeem Davis-Gaither, drafted players CJ Allen and Bryce Boettcher, and undrafted rookies. Head coach Lou Anarumo’s staff is rotating these players, alongside returning veterans Austin Ajiake and Jaylon Carlies, to identify the most effective starting lineup.
While CJ Allen is projected to start at MIKE linebacker and wear the green dot on defence, the identity of his partner remains under evaluation. Davis-Gaither is considered the front-runner for the spot next to Allen due to his experience in Anarumo’s defensive scheme from their time together in Cincinnati, though this is not a guarantee.
According to Jake Arthur of Colts Roundtable, Davis-Gaither, Allen, Boettcher, and Carlies have all seen first-team reps during minicamp. The team is deliberately experimenting with different combinations to find stability before training camp begins, with clarity on the starting lineup expected to emerge once pads come on during training camp.
The Colts' linebacker room has experienced heavy turnover, with Franklin and Pratt, who led the team in snaps last season, no longer on the roster. New additions include Davis-Gaither, Allen, and Boettcher, along with two undrafted rookies. Returning players from last season include Ajiake and Carlies.
Boettcher or Carlies could push for playing time, adding to the uncertainty at the position. At this stage of the offseason, there is not a lot to read into the current rotations, but the Colts are doing the right thing by experimenting with different combinations and vetting their starting options.
