The depth of the Colts’ linebackers presents a welcome challenge for the defensive coordinator

Gus Bradley’s frank assessment of Shaquille Leonard’s position highlights the linebacker core’s competitive depth and presents a lot of advantages for the team.

The Indianapolis Colts have placed a strong emphasis on maintaining balance on the football field, and Chris Ballard has gone above and beyond to assemble a strong defense. It has been the same way this year too. Gus Bradley, the defensive coordinator, has an enviable problem with an impressive linebacker depth chart: managing a wealth of talent.

In an otherwise reserved sports environment, Bradley was surprisingly candid earlier this week when answering inquiries concerning Shaquille Leonard’s recent remarks about his playing time and capacity for “splash plays.”

Bradley stated, “Shaq is frustrated with wanting to be on the field more,” but emphasized how common these kinds of frustrations are at work. Leonard’s candor regarding the discussions and standards established by the coaches demonstrates the Colts’ organizational transparency.

Bradley emphasized that each player is expected to take responsibility. “Hey, this is what’s happening, and this is what we need from you,” Bradley said, outlining the culture of communication within the team.

Bradley’s response is noteworthy for the way he describes specific player circumstances and offers insight into the team’s developing leadership. Leonard took on a more prominent role when Zaire Franklin was suddenly sidelined last week, and he succeeded in getting his team “back right” following a difficult practice in the red zone. Bradley’s account of Leonard filling in for Franklin emphasizes the talent and depth of the linebacker room.

As Bradley observes, “It is a process,” the conversation about Leonard’s playtime spills over into more general discussions about player efficiency and game strategy. He went into detail about how the team decided how to use its linebackers, especially E.J. Speed, who is a strong candidate for more playing time.

Bradley assessed Leonard and Speed, pointing out that the amount of time the defense spends in nickel packages will have an impact on their snap counts. He added that when Leonard’s situation demands that Speed be on the field more, Speed wants to be there more and have a bigger impact on games. “They’re both fighting for playing time, but they’re great friends and great competitive friends,” as Bradley put it.

This internal competition is a driving force behind the enhanced performance of the Colts’ defense, posing a “good problem” of having too much talent competing for the field.

The Colts’ depth at linebacker not only ensures great on-field performance but also serves as a reminder to fans of the human side of the difficulties these players face in trying to establish a name for themselves in a cutthroat league. Many teams wish they had a linebacker dilemma like the Colts do, but Bradley and the team are handling it transparently.