Colts' free agent addition set to play a crucial role in 2023
The Indianapolis Colts made some key roster moves during free agency. Some included subtractions, such as cutting Matt Ryan and trading away Stephon Gilmore. Others, however, include additions. For instance, the Colts went out and signed former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Samson Ebukam in free agency. Which has been viewed as an underrated, but […]
The Indianapolis Colts made some key roster moves during free agency. Some included subtractions, such as cutting Matt Ryan and trading away Stephon Gilmore.
Others, however, include additions. For instance, the Colts went out and signed former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Samson Ebukam in free agency. Which has been viewed as an underrated, but important move by Indianapolis.
Ebukam enjoyed a bit of a breakout season in 2022 while with the 49ers. He displayed his ability to get after the quarterback with an impressive 14.8% pressure rate and a handful of sacks. Indianapolis rewarded him with a three-year deal for $27 million.
Pro Football Focus is among those that are fans of the acquisition. Ebukam joins a defensive front that includes the likes of Shaq Leonard and Kwity Paye. He has the ability to fit in well with the defensive personnel already in the building.
PFF named the signing of Ebukam as their favorite move made by the Colts this offseason. The former day-three draft selection should carve out a crucial role with the team in 2023.
Ebukam earned career highs across the board in 2022, with a 69.1 overall grade, 43 quarterback pressures and 11.8% pressure percentage. The former fourth-rounder profiles as a solid replacement for Yannick Ngakoue in Indianapolis as the smaller wide alignment edge rusher, with Kwity Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo the bigger defensive end types.
Furthermore, Ebukam is ready to make his presence felt with the Colts. If his last season on the West Coast is any indication, good things are coming in Indianapolis.
"I've watched film of (the Colts) a lot," Ebukam said after signing. ""We sang high praises of them when I was back with the 49ers just to see their effort and how well they play together. And just to be a part of that, I gotta elevate my game even more."
Samson Ebukam will be an important piece for the Indianapolis Colts and their defensive success next season. He seems to be ready for just that.
