Colts View Josh McNary as Potential Starter in 2014

Jan 11, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano on the sidelines during the fourth quarter of the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Indianapolis, IN – According to Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star, the Colts are very high on linebacker Josh McNary and view him as a potential starter in 2014. McNary didn’t really have a role on the team until the final five weeks of the season and into the playoffs. During the regular season, he recorded just 14 tackles, but did show a great nose for the football and good closing speed as well.

McNary was a rookie this past season after serving in the Army following his collegiate career at Army. He was the all-time leader in sacks for the Army Black Knights and received positive grades from nearly every analyst for his play on the field this past season. The Colts have both Pat Angerer to decide on this offseason as far as free agency is concerned, but both players were unable to play at a high level last season.

This is certainly a great story and it would be special to see him get a chance at the starting position. There’s no question that he has the skill and work ethic to make a huge difference next season, but it all depends on what else the Colts decide to do this offseason. Will Pat Angerer and Kavell Conner be brought back in free agency? Only time will tell, but the Colts do view Josh McNary as a key piece for next season.

Evan Massey is an Editor for Naptown’s Finest. Follow Evan on Twitter at @Massey_Evan.