According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Caplan, Western Michigan outside linebacker Keion Adams has a visit scheduled with the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday.
The 6’2″, 245 pound pass rusher could be a potential sleeper for the Colts:
OLB/DE Keion Adams is scheduled to visit Steelers today. Scheduled to visit Colts Thurs. Both teams run 3-4 D. Visited Chargers last week.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) April 12, 2017
During his senior season, Adams recorded 49 tackles, 18.0 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks in 14 games–earning All-MAC 2nd-Team honors.
He also posted solid measurables at his pro day in March, recording a 4.70 forty yard dash, 27 bench press reps, and a vertical leap of 36 inches.
Here’s his NFL.com draft profile:
"NFL Comparison: Arthur MoatsBOTTOM LINE: Adams is an elusive pass rusher who wins with athleticism and foot quickness, but who may lack the size and length to be considered an every-down edge player in a 3-4 front. Adams has pursuit quickness around the field and can be very disruptive when allowed to shoot gaps against the run, but he will have to prove he can set a strong edge and hold his ground at the point of attack if he wants to become anything more than a situational rusher."
However, NFL.com isn’t alone in their assessment of Adams’ potential pass rush ability at the next level, as he could definitely surprise:
Western Michigan LB Keion Adams has a shot. Good pass-rusher. I'd try playing him at LB though w/lack of size.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) April 6, 2017
Of course, the Colts could clearly use some pass rush help.
While new general manager Chris Ballard brought in two new outside linebackers as free agents, Jabaal Sheard and John Simon–both of whom can offer pass rush, each player is considered more of an ‘energy and effort’ player off the edge as opposed to a ‘pure’ pass rusher.
From that standpoint, Adams could make quite a deal of sense for the Colts as a mid-round small school sleeper, offering surprising pass rush at the outside linebacker position.