Indianapolis Colts Still Believe in Bjoern Werner

As the Indianapolis Colts 2013 first round pick, outside linebacker Bjoern Werner hasn’t quite lived up to his draft expectations. In fact, one could make a strong argument that’s he’s already been a draft bust. Regardless, and whatever you may think, the Colts still apparently believe in him.

The 3rd-year linebacker looked initially improved from his underwelming rookie season, as from Weeks 5-7 of this past season, he had 4 sacks including a 2 sack effort at home against Baltimore. However, Werner seemed to either run out of gas or simply regressed in the second half of the year, as he had 0 sacks the rest of the way despite making 9 more starts. By season’s end, Werner was a healthy scratch for the AFC Championship game, which is generally never an encouraging sign for any player.

When asked what he expects from his former 1st round pick in today’s pre-draft press conference, General Manager Ryan Grigson replied:

"“I want to see when he was like by midseason (last year), when he was flying around, making plays,” said Grigson. “I think with Bjoern, it’s never going to be because of a lack of want-to. He plays with a high motor.”“We love Bjoern’s effort,” added Grigson. “I know he cares a heck of a lot, and that’s the one thing you love about him. I know how much he cares about the name on the back of his jersey. He wants to be a great player, and I think he will be.”"

Sep 28, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Bjoern Werner (92) against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Despite what Grigson says, this will likely be a “make-or-break” season for the 24 year old outside linebacker and the pressure is on to meet expectations. Three seasons is enough time to fully evaluate a pass rusher, even one with a more limited football background like Werner.

The Colts will have plenty of competition for reps at the outside linebacker spots too, as Robert Mathis returns this season, the team added proven veteran pass rusher Trent Cole from the Eagles, and emerging 2nd-year pro Jonathan Newsome figures to assume a larger role after his team-high 6.5 sack rookie debut season.

Nevertheless, it appears that Werner still has the confidence of his general manager in Ryan Grigson, the NFL personnel head who effectively drafted him. Grigson apparently likes Werner’s “want, motor, and work ethic”, and still believes he can be a great player despite his inconsistent results and production so far.

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