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Colts: Defensive End Tarell Basham Working with Starters During OTA’s

By Andrew Ites

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - NOVEMBER 12: Tarell Basham #58 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - NOVEMBER 12: Tarell Basham #58 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Colts second-year defensive end Tarell Basham could be ready to take on a bigger role this season due to a change in defensive scheme.

Colts defensive Tarell Basham had a pretty disappointing rookie year after being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft.

He ended the season with just five tackles and two sacks, and his effort was questioned at times by the coaching staff in Indianapolis.

With new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, the Colts will transition to a 4-3 base defense after running a 3-4 defense for most of the Chuck Pagano era.

That change in scheme and a new coaching staff could give Tarell Basham a chance at a breakout year in 2018.

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According to the Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star, Basham has been working with the starting defensive line in OTA’s.

There will likely be a starting job up for grabs in the Colts’ front seven as John Simon is not a great fit in the new 4-3 scheme, and Basham could be the beneficiary of that situation.

At 6-foot 4-inches and 266 pounds, Basham has slightly better size than Simon and he has more experience working with his hand in the dirt in a three-point stance.

Simon is definitely the more accomplished player during each of their NFL careers, but the Colts may be willing to move on from Simon if Basham shows he’s ready to take on that role.

Next: Chris Ballard Wants to Keep Andrew Luck Healthy in 2018

There is still a lot to be determined along the defensive line in Indianapolis, but it looks like Basham will be given an opportunity to redeem himself after a subpar rookie season.

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