What the Colts can expect from Jabaal Sheard

Sheard hasn’t played yet this season because of knee surgery he had during training camp. But he could play tomorrow though, so what should the Colts expect from him?

The Colts might be getting their starting defensive end back tomorrow. Jabaal Sheard didn’t play at all during the preseason because of knee surgery. He has slowly been working himself back into shape and might make his season debut tomorrow. If he does, what should the team expect?

Sheard was the best pass rusher the team had a year ago. He was the most consistent at getting pressure on the quarterback. This year, the Colts went out and got Justin Houston to be the best pass rusher on the team. But he hasn’t quite produced like Sheard did a year ago.

If he plays tomorrow, expect Sheard to start slowly. He hasn’t played in awhile so he will probably be rusty. I don’t expect Sheard to get any sacks, but I do expect him to get some pressure. He will probably get a few quarterback hits in as well.

Sheard is actually surprisingly good at stopping the run. He might not be quite as good as he normally is with that. Because of his knee, he might not be able to move laterally like he normally does. He isn’t quite fully healed so it will be interesting to see how well he can move.

It isn’t even guaranteed that Sheard plays tomorrow. He is a game-time decision. But the Colts could really use his production if he does suit up.