Colts: 3 overlooked players that have potential to be team MVP in 2021

2. Bobby Okereke

Indianapolis never seemed keen on re-signing Anthony Walker in free agency, and that proved true when he inked a one-year deal with the Browns.

The Colts had numerous opportunities, both through the draft and free agency, to find a replacement for Walker, and they surprisingly bypassed doing so. Whether that was a vote of confidence in Bobby Okereke or a matter of preserving cap space remains unclear.

We’re of the mindset it was a vote of confidence in Okereke, who quietly played just 12 fewer defensive snaps than Walker last season. As we see it, the Colts seemingly made up their mind about promoting Okereke into a starting role prior to taking action elsewhere.

Bobby Okereke could be a game-changer for the Colts’ defense.

Okereke was basically built in a lab for Matt Eberflus’ defensive philosophy, which preaches playing through the whistle. The 2019 third-round pick is a bundle of energy and just seems to have an extra gear of stamina compared to most linebackers.

That makes him a dream fit alongside Darius Leonard, who has similar intangibles, but is significantly more skilled and further along in his development. Though Walker was a sound tackler, he left a lot to be desired from coverage and dynamism standpoints.

Taking that into account, don’t be surprised if Okereke forms an even better partnership with Leonard. Given how important containing the middle of the field will be for Indy’s defense next season, Okereke is a no-brainer team MVP candidate.