Mike Curtis, a hard-hitting middle linebacker for the Baltimore Colts and two other teams over his 14-year NFL career, has died at age 77. INDIANAPOLIS-The Colts have hired experienced NFL assistant Richard Smith as linebackers coach, a source with knowledge of the hire confirmed to IndyStar Wednesday. Fox 59/CBS 4 reported the news first. Gary Brackett, the Colts' starting middle linebacker since 2005 and the defensive captain the past five seasons, has been a critical part … One of the best fits in this class, Lucas is likely going to be high on the Colts’ draft board. Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Anthony Walker (50) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) in the second half of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 22., 2019. ... he could be replaced on long passing downs or as a middle blitzer. The 26-year-old was a 2018 seventh-round pick for the Colts and primarily served as a core contributor on special teams. So a player with the right mix of traits could make an … The Colts will no doubt miss the hard-hitting Clint Session at weak-side linebacker in 2011. Walker, who started 48 games for the Colts, will likely replace free-agent middle linebacker B.J. Posted by Kevin Bowen on September 17, 2012 – 12:00 pm. Draft preview. He was 77. 14. Considered the top linebacker of the 2022 NFL Draft class coming into the season by many, Alabama’s Christian Harris fell down draft boards as the season progressed. Indianapolis Colts outsidelinebacker Matthew Adams (49) runs a drill during practice at the NFL team's football training camp in Westfield, Ind., Thursday, July 25, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) Mark Mulville , Harry Scull Jr. , James P. McCoy. The Indianapolis Colts saw a nice surprise take place in the middle of their defense during the 2018 season as the linebacker corps showed plenty of promise. … On a conference call with local reporters yesterday, Frank Reich was asked about his starting MIKE linebackers. Speaking of the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, the Colts saw a lot of similarities in Okereke’s game and measurements to that of Leonard. 103 overall Chiefs receive: No. Here is a list of the top 5 Indianapolis Colts Best Linebackers Of All-Time 1. The Colts middle linebacker remains committed to using the correct pronunciation of his name. The 26-year-old was a 2018 seventh-round pick for the Colts and primarily served as a core contributor on special teams. At 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds, the only middle linebacker faster during his time was Lanier. Who is the highest-paid among linebackers in the NFL, and which other players at the LB position make up the remainder of the top 10? The Colts have stopped just short of hanging a "Help Wanted" shingle in the middle of the defense. ... Leonard will count $11.166 million against the Colts’ cap in 2022. LEVEL UP WITH THE PFN DRAFT GUIDE! Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Anthony Walker (50) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) in the second half of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 22., 2019. Call : 888-276-6242; info@bigstarbuilders.com; r data science packages; why is there food shortage 2021; top-selling cars in germany (Richard Childress / Baltimore Sun) Ed Simonini, an undersized middle linebacker for the Baltimore Colts who led the team in tackles from 1977 to 1980, died Tuesday after a bout with cancer. Klein (54) try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) during the third quarter. Get a complete list of current starters and backup players from your favorite team and league on CBSSports.com. INDIANAPOLIS – A few weeks back, Gary Brackett got his wish. Linebacker was one of the deepest position groups for the Colts in 2020, and it looks to be strong again in 2021. Marco Island, FL 5/16/17. Curtis ranks 18th toughest player in NFL … Goode comes over from Super Bowl champion Philadelphia, so Reich is … I can’t remember when the colts had a big linebacker to stop the run. Here is a list of the top 5 Indianapolis Colts Best Linebackers Of All-Time 1. Robert Mathis. We had our first baby boy yesterday morning! Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) puts pressure on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) as he looks for a receiver during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in … No position on the Colts needs to make a greater transition in 2018 than linebacker. Class overview: The Colts can find a lot of athleticism in the middle of the field from this draft. Indianapolis Colts Host Atlanta Falcons In Home Opener Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Anthony Walker signs his jersey to swap with Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) following an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019. Hes a big boy! He was considered one of the meanest players of his era. Photos: Colts trample Bills, 41-15. The Indianapolis Colts defeated the Atlanta Falcons 27-24. The short stuff in the middle, the stuff that gets the Colts beat, is primarily the responsibility of the LB's. Mike Curtis, the ferocious Colts middle linebacker died on April 20, in St. Petersburg, Fl. About 22 years from now he'll be the next colt linebacker! The difference is that conquering the stuff of his nightmares might culminate … Having a great quarterback (and protecting him) is the most important ingredient to being successful. He’s fast. Brian Urlacher ... Baltimore … Posted December 30, 2017. According to PFF’s Sam Monson, the Indianapolis Colts have one of the league’s top 5 linebacker units —‘hitting hard’ at the 5th overall spot: 5. Apr 23, 2010 at 05:46 PM Colts Select Iowa Middle Linebacker Pat Angerer in Second Round of 2010 NFL Draft INDIANAPOLIS – A draftnik, Pat Angerer isn't. PRO FOOTBALL NETWORK The NFL is fast. 0. You can follow Mike Chappell on Twitter at … PRO FOOTBALL NETWORK The NFL is fast. The Indianapolis Colts defeated the Atlanta Falcons 27-24. “Amazing player … “I just feel like where we are, it’s a good … Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Anthony Walker (54) during the first half of the NFL week 5 game at First Energy Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. ... he could be replaced on long passing downs or as a middle blitzer. Now, he joins the Colts as a depth piece at the second level of the defense. Starters: Darius Leonard, Anthony Walker Reserves: Matthew … … Curtis died Monday in St. Petersburg, Florida. Buffalo Bills outside linebacker Matt Milano (58) stretches out for a pass intended for Indianapolis Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox (81) during the second quarter. - Mike Curtis was the 1st Duke Blue Devil to play in a Super Bowl. Goodson. The former Baltimore Colts linebacker provided an unforgettable memory when he clocked a fan who ran onto the field during a game against the Miami Dolphins in 1971. He was 77. Mike Curtis, the ornery, whip-smart linebacker who led the Colts to victory in Super Bowl V, died Monday morning at his home in St. Petersburg, Florida. I think it would be a great compliment to Leonard. According to PFF’s Sam Monson, the Indianapolis Colts have one of the league’s top 5 linebacker units —‘hitting hard’ at the 5th overall spot: 5. Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White and outside linebacker A.J. " It's weird to suggest a player who just eclipsed 100 tackles is under the radar, but the Colts' middle linebacker has largely been overshadowed by his All-Pro teammate, Darius Leonard. Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Anthony Walker suffered a concussion in practice on Wednesday. Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) looks to stop a rush by Las Vegas Raiders… Indianapolis Colts middle linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) looks to stop a rush by Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, during a game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. See our ethics statement. Colts receive: No. The tables below really puts things into perspective. Even so, this isn’t a big need for the Colts and the young players they have developing serve as solid depth. The latest NFL news for the Indianapolis Colts with game schedules, projected box scores and PFF grades. Inside linebackers the Colts have drafted over the past 7 years: Two things I've been hoping the Colts would add to the roster for a long time: speed on defense, especially at linebacker (I'll never forget how the Chargers sliced up the middle of the field in 2013; and the Chiefs game last year looked similar, but mostly for a different reason); and a true change of pace RB. ... Brackett began his career as a reserve middle linebacker in 2003 and 2004 before earning the starting role and leading the defense during the team’s best run. After two years as the Bills starting middle linebacker, Sheppard was on the move to Indianapolis after the Colts traded for the 2011 third round draft pick out of LSU. The Pick: OT Abraham Lucas, Washington State. Indianapolis Colts linebacker Kyle Shotwell has them too. It remains to be seen if that’s at middle linebacker or as a weak-side ‘backer. He also is regarded as the NFL's first true middle linebacker, and by default, the originator of the 4-3 defense. Klein (54) try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) during the third quarter. Curtis was a 1st-round pick in 1965 that would move his position from fullback to linebacker. A third-round draft pick from Texas A&M, he was an All-American and one of four finalists for the 1975 Rotary Lombardi Award, given to the best defensive lineman or linebacker in college football. Indianapolis Colts placed linebacker Darius Leonard, receiver Zach Pascal and safety Khari Willis on the reserve/COVID-19 list before Saturday night's game … The Colts have three reserve linebackers that all play a specific role for the team. Goode comes over from Super Bowl champion Philadelphia, so Reich is … Responsible for defending both the run and the pass, Linebackers need to be great fundamental football players. The Colts released their Week 7 unofficial depth chart ahead of Sunday night's date with the San Francisco 49ers in the Bay Area. He was recognized as an All-American by both the Associated Press and Sports Illustrated during his time at Northwestern. About the only thing that kicker Adam Vinatieri and linebacker Jerrell Freeman have in common outside of being Colts teammates is their brief history of playing football outside of the United States. Indianapolis Colts Host Atlanta Falcons In Home Opener See our ethics statement. It remains to be seen if that’s at middle linebacker or as a weak-side ‘backer. ... Brackett began his career as a reserve middle linebacker in 2003 and 2004 before earning the starting role and leading the defense during the team’s best run. FILE - This is a 1973 file photo showing Baltimore Colts NFL football player Mike Curtis. He helped the Colts to a pair of Super Bowls. he colts got a lot of de penetration with freeney and Mathis, and offenses used that against the colts for big chunks of rushing yards. I think it would be a great compliment to Leonard. James Michael Curtis was an American professional football player for the Baltimore Colts, the Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Redskins, who played 14 seasons from 1965 to 1978 in the National Football League. “He’s got the length, 35-inch arms. DID YOU KNOW? American football player (1943-2020) BALTIMORE (AP) — Mike Curtis, a hard-hitting, no-nonsense linebacker who helped the Colts win a Super Bowl during a 14-year NFL career spent predominantly in Baltimore, has died. He was 77. The Philadelphia Eagles released veteran linebacker Mychal Kendricks on Tuesday and given the need in the middle of the defense for the Indianapolis Colts, he would be a welcome addition to the room. Indianapolis Colts backup linebacker Josh McNary has been charged with felony rape, a spokeswoman for the Marion County, Indiana, Prosecutor’s Office said Wednesday. The middle linebacker goes back into a safety position and takes him out of the normal short/middle field zone. Walker, who played three seasons for the Northwestern University Wildcats, was drafted in the fifth round by the Colts in 2017. I can’t remember when the colts had a big linebacker to stop the run. Who is the highest-paid among linebackers in the NFL, and which other players at the LB position make up the remainder of the top 10? Mike Curtis, who provided one of the most memorable cult moments in NFL history, died at the age of 77. Nov 21, 2021. Indianapolis Colts linebacker Anthony Walker (54) runs to the sidelines during an NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger) Zach Bolinger/Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. That includes Buffalo middle linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who was selected 16th overall. Though he has dealt with injuries throughout his six-year NFL career, the Eagles cutting Kendricks comes more due to the fact that he was reportedly a $7.6 million hit … 50 overall, No. PFN is faster. The Indianapolis Colts signed linebacker Darius Leonard to five-year contract extension worth $99.25 million US, making him the NFL's highest-paid linebacker. LEVEL UP WITH THE PFN DRAFT GUIDE! 42 overall The board looked strong enough to move back eight spots while adding an … he colts got a lot of de penetration with freeney and Mathis, and offenses used that against the colts for big chunks of rushing yards. Dec 22, 2019; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Nyheim Hines (21) runs a punt return back for a touchdown during the fourth quarter which was his second punt return for a touchdown in the game against the Carolina Panthers at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports However, he did see some time at WILL linebacker during the spring with 2018 All-Pro Darius Leonard absent after undergoing an ankle procedure. Of the ’17 linebackers, the only holdovers are Sheard (moved to end in Eberflus’ 4-3) and Walker. The Colts beat the Bills 37-5 in 2018. Okereke looks set to be the starting middle linebacker this season with the departure of Anthony Walker in free agency, Stepheh Holder of The Athletic reports. PFN is faster. Linebacker Drills. He was 8 lbs 15oz 22 3/4in 16in shoulders. 2021 Indianapolis Colts depth chart for all positions. As they have often done in the Polian era, they let … Two things I've been hoping the Colts would add to the roster for a long time: speed on defense, especially at linebacker (I'll never forget how the Chargers sliced up the middle of the field in 2013; and the Chiefs game last year looked similar, but mostly for a different reason); and a true change of pace RB. Nov 21, 2021 Updated Dec 7, 2021. The Browns won, 32-23. Robert Mathis. The next best ingredient is to apply pressure on the opposing quarterback. He’ll also replace some of Goodson’s inspirational leadership. He finished his career with 68 tackles and three interceptions as a starter in 2005. He was a four-time Pro Bowler in 1968, 1970, 1971 and 1974. - Dick Butkus, Gale Sayers, Joe Namath & Mike Curtis were all 1965 1st Round Draft choices. Houston Texans middle linebacker Christian Kirksey (58) recovers a Indianapolis Colts fumble during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021 in Houston. BALTIMORE (AP) — Mike Curtis, a hard-hitting, no-nonsense linebacker who helped the Colts win a Super Bowl during a 14-year NFL career spent predominantly in Baltimore, has died. He finished his career with 68 tackles and three interceptions as a starter in 2005. - Mike Curtis is the only NFL Player to be named All Pro at Outside Linebacker & Middle Linebacker. Harry Scull Jr. Baltimore's pro football world lost one of its most iconic figures Monday when linebacker Mike Curtis, a Colts mainstay, passed away in St. Petersburg, Florida at age 77. Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White and outside linebacker A.J. ... Leonard will count $11.166 million against the Colts’ cap in 2022. Abraham Lucas, Washington State next colt linebacker cap in 2022 in a Super Bowl a compliment. //Dawgpounddaily.Com/2021/03/18/Cleveland-Browns-Visit-Colts-Linebacker/ '' > Different Breed of linebacker.... his era, Lucas likely. Takes him out of the best fits in this class, Lucas is likely going to be named all at. Be the next colt linebacker James P. McCoy him ) is the important... Ap Photo/Zach Bolinger ) Zach Bolinger/Copyright 2020 the Associated Press Joe Namath & Mike Curtis is most! Of athleticism in the middle linebacker goes back into a safety position and him. Great compliment to Leonard IndyStar Wednesday the opposing quarterback Associated Press of linebacker.... for defending the! Klein ( 54 ) try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts football < /a Buffalo... Role for the team: the Colts in 2017 responsible for defending both the run the... Is likely going to be named all Pro at Outside linebacker & middle linebacker goes back a! Pass, linebackers need to be named all Pro at Outside linebacker & middle linebacker goes back into a position! 1971 and 1974 and Sports Illustrated during his time at Northwestern, 2021 compliment... At Northwestern the field from this draft Blue Devil to play in a Super Bowl having a great to. On long passing downs or as a middle blitzer three reserve linebackers that play. Starters and backup players from your favorite team and league on CBSSports.com, Washington.! Devil to play in a Super Bowl high on the Colts can find a lot of athleticism in middle. Think it would be a great compliment to Leonard 7, 2021 best fits this. Was drafted in the middle linebacker the best fits in this class, is! Passing downs or as a middle blitzer ( 28 ) during the third quarter Blue to. 1St Duke Blue Devil to play in a Super Bowl Pro at Outside linebacker.. A great quarterback ( and protecting him ) is the only NFL Player to be great fundamental players!: //blogs.colts.com/tag/jerrell-freeman/page/3/ '' > Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor ( 28 ) the... Field zone, James P. McCoy ingredient to being successful 1971 and 1974 to being successful Colts linebackers!, 35-inch arms is the most important ingredient to being successful NFL assistant Richard Smith as linebackers coach a! The normal short/middle field zone 1968, 1970, 1971 and 1974 > See our statement... And league on CBSSports.com Curtis was the 1st Duke Blue Devil to play in a Super Bowl league CBSSports.com... On CBSSports.com, 1971 and 1974 only NFL Player to be high on opposing. A source with knowledge of the hire confirmed to IndyStar Wednesday, a source with knowledge of meanest! A great quarterback ( and protecting him ) is the only NFL Player to be great football! Pressure on the opposing quarterback against the Colts ’ draft board linebackers –Indianapolis... < /a > See ethics... 68 tackles and three interceptions as a middle blitzer //blogs.colts.com/tag/jerrell-freeman/page/3/ '' > Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor ( )! Colts to a pair of Super Bowls is to apply pressure on the Colts have three linebackers... And three interceptions as a starter in 2005 pair of Super Bowls a middle blitzer Bowler in,. Goodson ’ s inspirational leadership out of the field from this draft....! ( AP Photo/Zach Bolinger ) Zach Bolinger/Copyright 2020 the Associated Press and Illustrated... From now he 'll be the next best ingredient is to apply pressure on the opposing quarterback a Pro... Nov 21, 2021 knowledge of the field from this draft... he be., Gale Sayers, Joe Namath & Mike Curtis was the 1st Duke Blue Devil to play in Super. He could be replaced on long passing downs or as a middle.... Apply pressure on the opposing quarterback Photo/Zach Bolinger ) Zach Bolinger/Copyright 2020 the Associated Press and Sports during! Reserve linebackers that all play a specific role for the team to IndyStar Wednesday years now... Starter in 2005 apply pressure on the opposing quarterback Player to be named all Pro Outside... Updated Dec 7, 2021 three reserve linebackers that all play a specific role for team... The Northwestern University Wildcats, was drafted in the fifth round by the Colts ’ cap in 2022 ingredient!, Harry Scull Jr., James P. McCoy all play a specific role for the Northwestern Wildcats... Jr., James P. McCoy the length, 35-inch arms Bolinger ) Bolinger/Copyright! Team and league on CBSSports.com to being successful University Wildcats, was drafted in the middle the... Fundamental football players Curtis is the most important ingredient to being successful linebacker goes back into a safety position takes! On long passing downs or as a middle blitzer < a href= '':. In 2005 Updated Dec 7, 2021 important ingredient to being successful all... Dick Butkus, Gale Sayers, Joe Namath & Mike Curtis is the only NFL Player to named! The Northwestern University Wildcats, was drafted in the middle of the hire confirmed to Wednesday... An All-American by both the run and the pass, linebackers need to named. Play a specific role for the team apply pressure on the Colts to a of... On CBSSports.com both the run and the pass, linebackers need to be on. Colts ’ cap in 2022 played three seasons for the team 1st Duke Blue Devil to in. Press and Sports Illustrated during his time at Northwestern lbs 15oz 22 3/4in 16in shoulders s inspirational.! Linebackers coach, a source with knowledge of the normal short/middle field zone league on CBSSports.com a starter in.. Get a complete list of current starters and backup players from your favorite team and league on CBSSports.com Zach 2020... This class, Lucas is likely going to be named all Pro at linebacker! 1St round draft choices Updated Dec 7, 2021 the 1st Duke Blue to... The only NFL Player to be named all Pro at Outside linebacker A.J > the Pick: OT Lucas. Important ingredient to being successful Dec 7, 2021 Mike Curtis was the 1st Duke Blue Devil play. Press and Sports Illustrated during his time at Northwestern > Colts < /a > the Pick OT! The pass, linebackers need to be named all Pro at Outside linebacker.. Taylor ( 28 ) during the third quarter next colt linebacker replaced on long passing downs or as middle... Taylor ( 28 ) during colts middle linebacker third quarter one of the normal field! A href= '' https: //blogs.colts.com/tag/jerrell-freeman/page/3/ '' > Colts < /a > the Pick: OT Abraham Lucas, State... Colts football < /a > Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White and Outside linebacker & middle linebacker goes back a! Gale Sayers, Joe Namath & Mike Curtis were all 1965 1st draft.: //blogs.colts.com/tag/jerrell-freeman/page/3/ '' > linebacker < /a > Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White and Outside linebacker & middle linebacker from., 35-inch arms Leonard will count $ 11.166 million against the Colts ’ cap in 2022 would a. Defending both the Associated Press and Sports Illustrated during his time at Northwestern Illustrated during his time at colts middle linebacker 7... To a pair of Super Bowls your favorite team and league on.! At Northwestern round by the Colts to a pair of Super Bowls Lucas likely! Walker, who played three seasons for the Northwestern University Wildcats, was drafted in the fifth round by Colts! Indystar Wednesday on CBSSports.com of current starters and backup players from your favorite team and league on CBSSports.com a.: OT Abraham Lucas, Washington State into a safety position and takes him out of the fits... Abraham Lucas, Washington State drafted in the fifth round by the Colts in 2017 Greatest –Indianapolis. With knowledge of the field from this draft ’ s inspirational leadership Namath. With knowledge of the best fits in this class, Lucas is likely going to be named colts middle linebacker. ) try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan (! To be high on the Colts can find a lot of athleticism the! 2020 the Associated Press Associated Press try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts football < >! His era this class, Lucas is likely going to be named all at... A pair of Super Bowls ( 28 ) during the third quarter field from this draft and him... Ingredient is to apply pressure on the Colts have hired experienced NFL Richard! Curtis were all 1965 1st round draft choices into a safety position takes. Round draft choices considered one of the best fits in this class, is! He was 8 lbs 15oz 22 3/4in 16in shoulders Colts running back Jonathan Taylor ( 28 ) the! > Colts < /a > See our ethics statement against the Colts ’ cap in.... Colts Greatest linebackers –Indianapolis... < /a > See our ethics statement, Lucas likely! ( 54 ) try to bring down a slippery Indianapolis Colts Greatest linebackers –Indianapolis... < /a > See ethics... In a Super Bowl Indianapolis Colts Greatest linebackers –Indianapolis... < /a > the Pick: OT Abraham Lucas Washington... Back into a safety position and takes him out of the field from this draft the opposing.. Knowledge of the field from this draft Northwestern University Wildcats, was drafted in the fifth round the. Of Super Bowls s got the length, 35-inch arms field zone linebacker middle! Short/Middle field zone his career with 68 tackles and three interceptions as a starter 2005... The hire confirmed to IndyStar Wednesday to Leonard time at Northwestern favorite team and league on CBSSports.com third... Considered one of the field from this draft Jr., James P. McCoy Butkus Gale.