Colts LB EJ Speed is ready to emerge as a star: Film Breakdown
In this film breakdown, we take a look at Indianapolis Colts 5th-year LB EJ Speed, the man tasked with replacing Bobby Okereke, a tackling machine that left the Colts this offseason.
Despite playing the 3rd-most snaps among Colts LBs in 2022, EJ Speed recorded the 5th highest run stop rate in the NFL and was a top-10 PFF run defender. Thankfully, as a former wide receiver, Speed has incredible speed for a linebacker. With a huge frame and wingspan too, he is a sound tackler that diagnoses plays very quickly. Speed could use the most improvement as a pass defender, because his lateral quickness isn't quite there. He has great chase down speed, and can come downhill quickly to smash underneath routes, but when he has to go side to side or backwards, he struggles to keep up.
Colts LB EJ Speed Film Breakdown
Strengths:
- Athleticism: EJ Speed possesses excellent athleticism, which is often evident in his speed, agility, and quickness. His physical attributes allow him to cover ground quickly and make plays sideline to sideline.
- Versatility: Speed has displayed versatility as a linebacker, capable of playing both inside and outside linebacker positions. This flexibility can provide value to a team as he can fulfill multiple roles depending on the defensive scheme.
- Special Teams Impact: Speed has made a notable impact on special teams, utilizing his speed and tackling ability to contribute in kickoff coverage and punt return units. His athleticism and instincts make him an asset in this phase of the game.
- Play Recognition: Speed has demonstrated the ability to diagnose plays and react quickly. He shows good instincts in identifying run or pass plays and has the potential to make disruptive plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Weaknesses:
- Coverage Skills: While Speed has the athleticism to be effective in coverage, there is room for improvement in his technique and awareness. Enhancing his ability to read routes, anticipate throws, and maintain tight coverage on opposing receivers will be beneficial to his game.
- Shedding Blocks: In order to excel as a linebacker, shedding blocks from offensive linemen and tight ends is crucial. Speed could work on developing better techniques to disengage from blockers, allowing him to make more impactful plays against the run.
- Consistency: Like many young players, maintaining consistency in his performance will be important for EJ Speed's development. This includes demonstrating consistency in tackling, gap integrity, and overall execution of his assignments.
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