Colts Camp Battles: Outside Linebacker
By Evan Reller
Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) tackles Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson (22) during the second quarter in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
2014 Stats: 29 tackles, 6 sacks
PFF Grade: +5.7
Walden might have had a mediocre season in 2013, but he was much more consistent in his second year with the Colts. He wasn’t a liability when it came to stopping the run and was a decent pass rusher last season. Walden was brought in more to set the edge against the run (and thus became the butt of jokes in 2013 for his failure to do so) as opposed to being a pass rusher.
Walden wasn’t a standout star in every game, but did play exceptionally well in the playoffs (earning a +8.4 for those three games alone from PFF).
There should be any doubt that Walden will be the starting left outside linebacker next season, where he’s been the past two seasons. We can expect another solid season from Walden as it is clear he needed some time to adjust to a new scheme. With more options at pass rushing linebacker, expect Walden to be used more in coverage and against the run this season.
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