The Indianapolis Colts have underwent a ton of change on the offensive side of the ball this offseason. From head coach to philosophy to quarterback, there is no doubt that next season will be different for Indianapolis.

Therefore, the Colts will be relying on its defense, especially to begin the 2023 schedule. Which will put pressure on defensive coordinator Gus Bradley as Shane Steichen figures out his main point of focus.

Fortunately, the Colts have some talent to work with. Specifically on the second level at linebacker. In fact, Pro Football Focus considers the Colts' linebackers corps as one of the best in the league..

Indianapolis is led by Pro Bowl talent Shaquille Leonard at the linebacker talent. Leonard did not have his best season in 2022, but when he is on and healthy, he has proven to be one of the best in the NFL at the position.

Beyond him, the Colts feature Zaire Franklin and Bobby Okereke at the position. Therefore, there is talent and depth, and that is why PFF is high on the unit ahead of next season,

The Colts’ linebackers actually held up reasonably well, considering Shaquille Leonard played only 74 snaps in 2022. Bobby Okereke (73.3 overall grade) and Zaire Franklin (57.0) led the way, while fourth-year man E.J. Speed (78.4) performed well in his first year with significant playing time. Okereke left for New York this offseason, but Franklin and Speed remain. Leonard’s health will be the key for this unit.

If Leonard gets back to his game in 2022, there is no telling how good the Colts can be defensively. Especially with DeForest Buckner and company leading the way up front.

When healthy, Shaquille Leonard is one of the premier playmakers in the NFL—his 2021 season featured a league-best 91.1 run-defense grade, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions. His presence as a turnover-forcing machine can change games in a heartbeat. His return to full health is as good as anything the Colts could have acquired to improve their defense.

Pro Football Focus gives some earned respect to Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquille Leonard and the Indianapolis Colts. Now, it's time to prove them right with stellar play when the regular season kicks off.

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