The Indianapolis Colts are contemplating a crucial addition to their defense, with linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley emerging as a leading candidate. A former New England Patriot, Bentley has shown resilience and capability on the field, despite a challenging 2024 season marred by injury. With a history of over 900 defensive snaps in his previous two seasons and a track record of solid tackling and blitzing, he offers valuable depth at a position where the Colts have struggled.

At just 29 years old, Bentley could complement young players like Jaylon Carlies, providing experience without overshadowing potential starters. His signing would not significantly impact the salary cap, allowing the Colts to maintain financial flexibility while addressing a pressing need on their roster.

After the 2025 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts are facing lingering concerns, especially surrounding their linebacker position. The team opted to select Hunter Wohler, a safety from Wisconsin, in the seventh round, intending to transition him into a linebacker role. This choice raises questions about depth and capability at a position crucial for defensive coverage, particularly with EJ Speed now with the Houston Texans.

General Manager Chris Ballard expressed confidence in second-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies, highlighting his effectiveness in limited playing time last season. However, with only 242 career defensive snaps, the transition of Carlies to a starting role is fraught with uncertainty. Additionally, the Colts’ new defensive scheme under Lou Anarumo emphasizes versatility and may require more from its linebacking core than previously expected.

The Indianapolis Colts' GM Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen expressed optimism following the 2025 NFL draft, highlighting their strategic moves and new acquisitions. Ballard described Day 3 of the draft as a 'good day for us' and emphasized the excitement surrounding their picks, particularly quarterback Riley Leonard from Notre Dame, whom they believe has significant upside. In addressing the absence of an inside linebacker in this year's draft, Ballard reassured fans of the team's confidence in their current roster, especially in Lou Anarumo's adapted defensive scheme. Steichen praised several new players, including DJ Giddens for his impressive contact balance and Tyler Warren for his versatility, likening his potential to that of Antonio Gates.

Steichen also discussed the promising attributes of their rookie class, stating that all are mature and productive, showcasing an element of toughness that aligns with the Colts' identity. The coaching staff sees potential in players like Hunter Wohler, who will fill multiple roles, and Tim Smith, who is expected to contribute significantly based on his performance during the Senior Bowl. This draft class aims to bolster the Colts' competitiveness in the upcoming season, particularly as they adapt to Steichen's evolving offensive strategies.

The Indianapolis Colts are poised to make strategic decisions regarding their defensive depth chart as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft. With seven picks in hand, the Colts need to address their defensive line, where they lack depth following the departure of Dayo Odeyingbo and the impending free agency of key players like Kwity Paye, Samson Ebukam, and Tyquan Lewis. The defensive tackle position, anchored by DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, also requires reinforcements, particularly after less than stellar performances from their backups.

In the linebacking corps, the Colts are excited about Jaylon Carlies, who may step into a starting role alongside Zaire Franklin. However, they recognize the need for added competition and depth, prompting consideration for potential draft picks. Meanwhile, the cornerback unit has seen an upgrade with the addition of Charvarius Ward, significantly improving their depth and reducing urgency for immediate draft needs. The safety position, bolstered by Cam Bynum, still presents a future concern as both Bynum and Nick Cross will become free agents in 2026. The Colts’ scouting and draft strategy will be critical in building a formidable defense going forward.

The Indianapolis Colts are evaluating their linebacker position ahead of the upcoming draft, following the losses of EJ Speed and Grant Stuard in free agency. While General Manager Chris Ballard acknowledges the need for depth, he indicated it's not an urgent priority. The focus is now on fostering competition to secure a spot next to Zaire Franklin, particularly with Jaylon Carlies, who transitioned successfully from safety last season and is viewed as an ascending talent.

Ballard praised Carlies for his performance, especially his impressive coverage skills, which limited opponents to a mere 6.0 yards per catch. Although Carlies underwent shoulder surgery, he is expected to be ready for training camp. The Colts have a strong history of developing linebackers, which may allow them to bypass selecting a linebacker in the early rounds of the draft. Ballard remains optimistic about the upcoming draft opportunities to bolster depth and competition at the position.