The Indianapolis Colts have a big task ahead of them: find a replacement for Gus Bradley that can revive their struggling defense. While there are talented players on the Colts' roster, Bradley's defense was heavily criticized. He favored simple schemes that remained consistent, regardless of who the Colts would be facing, which made it easy for their opponents to plan and run -- sometimes literally -- all over them.
Suffice it to say, the Colts need a major change at defensive coordinator. They've begun interviewing candidates, all of whom have different defensive philosophies. So far, there are four people who are known to be under consideration:
- Dennis Allen
- Lou Anuramo
- Ephraim Banda
- Steve Wilks
Now, a fifth person is being interviewed: Wink Martindale. Joel Erickson for the IndyStar confirmed that the Colts will be speaking to him tomorrow, and he would be a huge departure from Bradley's defense. And he's evidently a hot commodity; according to Bleacher Report, the Atlanta Falcons and Cincinnati Bengals are also interested.
Martindale started as linebackers coach in 2004 for the Oakland Raiders, and moved on to the Denver Broncos in 2008, where he was ultimately promoted to defensive coordinator in 2009. He was linebackers coach again for the Baltimore Ravens in 2012, and remained with them during their Super Bowl XLVII victory. He was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2018, and left the Ravens in 2022. He was then hired by the New York Giants to be their defensive coordinator, his last stint in the NFL before being hired as defensive coordinator for the University of Michigan.
One of the most notable differences between Martindale and Bradley is that Martindale is known to be an aggressive coach, whereas Bradley is much more laid-back. Considering comments from DeForest Buckner about ego problems on defense, that attitude could be exactly what this Indianapolis team needs to create a fearsome unit in 2025.