Ebukam joined the Colts on a three-year deal final March, resulting in excessive expectations in Indianapolis. The 29-year-old definitely delivered, setting a brand new profession excessive with 9.5 sacks. That determine greater than doubled his earlier private watermark, and he was positioned to stay a key determine alongside the sting in 2024. Now, his consideration will flip to rehabbing forward of 2025.
Indianapolis additionally has former first-rounder Kwity Paye within the fold for a minimum of two extra campaigns after electing to select up his fifth-year choice this spring. Paye has taken a step ahead when it comes to manufacturing throughout every of his three seasons up to now, and Ebukam’s absence will add additional to the expectations of a breakout in 2024. The Colts additionally return Tyquan Lewis and Dayo Odeyingbo on the defensive finish spot.
These gamers shall be joined by first-round rookie Laiatu Latu this season. The latter was the primary defender chosen within the draft, going at No. 15 general. The Colts’ depth forward of him restricted expectations for his debut marketing campaign, however shedding a full-time starter in Ebukam will little question result in an elevated workload for Latu. Injuries were a concern for the UCLA alum popping out of school, however he’ll now be counted on to stay wholesome this 12 months and serve in a minimum of a rotational capability.
Indianapolis completed fifth within the league in sacks final season with 51. The group’s remaining depth on the sting – together with the continued presence of DeForest Buckner alongside the inside – ought to permit for one more robust marketing campaign in that respect in 2024. Dropping Ebukam for the marketing campaign will deal a blow to the beginning lineup, nonetheless. He’ll now put together for a prolonged restoration interval forward of a possible stroll 12 months in 2025.
