Colts 2018 rookies: Matthew Adams

The Colts ended their 2018 draft with two linebackers. Both saw the field a decent amount. Now we look at the one taken out of Houston.

Matthew Adams was drafted in the seventh round out of Houston. He was one of two linebackers the Colts took in the seventh round. Like his counterpart Zaire Franklin, he was able to see the field and produce a decent amount for being a late round pick.

Adams recorded 33 tackles and 5 tackles for loss in his rookie season. He appeared in all 16 games this season, but was held stat-less in four of them. He was more productive than Franklin though, and even recovered a fumble this year.

The biggest problem with Adams is his lack of a pass rush. He did not have a single sack all year long. Part of that is the fact that linebackers didn’t blitz a whole bunch. But part of that is the fact that he needs to work on that part of his game if he wants to see time on the field.

Adams does play special teams and is a decent member of that unit. Because of his work on special teams, he should be able to keep his roster spot. It’s not often that a team keeps a seventh round pick, let alone two at the same position. But the Colts might do that for next year.

Like all rookies, Adams needs time to develop. He should have the time to do so because of his good special teams play. He could end up being a solid contributor on this Colts team if he can rush the quarterback. Pass rushers are a premium player in this league.

All in all, this was a solid rookie season for Adams. Hopefully he continues to improve so he can grow into a good player.