With the Reese’s Senior Bowl taking place on February 1st, let’s take a position-by-position look at who will be participating in the week-long event and could be of interest to the Indianapolis Colts.
Up first, let’s start with the linebacker position.
As general manager Chris Ballard looks to add more competition throughout the roster, while linebacker may not be considered a top need, adding to this position should be on the Colts’ radar.
For one, they will need to bolster their depth, whether that be through free agency or the draft, with EJ Speed and Grant Stuard set to hit free agency.
But in addition to that, the play from this position group was up and down at times in 2024. Tight ends and running backs found success in the passing game against the Colts, while the linebacker position–certainly not all at fault–contributed to some of the run game woes as well.
With that said, the Colts have a solid foundation with Zaire Franklin returning and rookie Jaylon Carlies, who brings coverage ability as a former college safety, proved to be a sound tackler and operated well in space to limit YAC opportunities for the offense.
In the new Lou Anarumo defense, versatility throughout the second and third levels of the defense is an important element to help disguise coverages.
Below is a look at the linebackers who will be participating in this year’s Senior Bowl:
Eugene Asante, Auburn
Shemar James, Florida
Smael Mondon Jr., Georgia
Nick Martin, Oklahoma State
Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon
Tyreem Powell, Rutgers
Demetrius Knight Jr., South Carolina
Karene Reid, Utah
Cody Lindenberg, Minnesota
Carson Schwesinger, UCLA
The Senior Bowl is an invitation only, All-Star college football showcase held each year in Mobile, Alabama.
Here, top prospects are able to display their talents throughout the week against high-level competition, in drills, on the practice field, and then the week concludes with a game between the American and National teams.
The event attracts general managers, coaches, and scouts from across the league, and in addition to the on-field portion of the week, NFL teams also get the opportunity to meet with prospects as well.
