Colts 2014 Positional Review: Outside Linebacker
By Evan Reller
Oct 5, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts defender Bjoern Werner(92) goes up against a Baltimore Ravens defender in the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Colts won, 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sportss
2015 Contract: $2,153,562
Stats: 50 tackles, 4 sacks, 1 forced fumble
PFF Grade: -3.9
The Good:
Early in the season, Werner appeared to turn the corner and start making an impact. He struggled through the first four games of the season but had a three game stretch where he was an impact player (against the Ravens, Texans, and Bengals).
The Bad:
For a former first round draft pick, Werner has not produced. He was supposed to fill in for Mathis this season and looked exceptional in training camp. He was always so close to getting a sack, but just couldn’t connect.
He fell apart late in the season. His most redeeming quality was in run support with PFF giving up a +4.4, but he earned a -6.6 in pass rush which is his most important job.
Walden saw his snaps reduced in the final weeks of the season and he was inactive for the AFC Championship game.
2015 Outlook:
Werner is working with a steep learning curve. Not only did he switch positions when he joined the Colts he also hasn’t been playing football for all that long.
He isn’t in danger of being cut, but the Colts need him to produce in 2015. He’ll be given plenty of opportunities next season but its do or die time for Werner.