Colts Re-Signing Promising, Young Defender

The report is out that the Indianapolis Colts have struck a deal to re-sign linebacker E.J. Speed.

First reported by NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and The Score's Jordan Schultz, the Colts are locking in the promising, young defender on a two-year deal worth up to $9 million.

Speed came off his best season in the NFL last year as a member of the Colts. Even with the team's harsh 4-12-1 finish, it was the defense that often was alone in playing competent football for Indianapolis.

After starting his career slowly from 2019-21 (47 tackles and 1 fumble forced in three seasons), Speed came to life in 2022.

The four-year pro would set career highs in several categories, posting 63 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and a sack, which was crucial minus superstar linebacker Shaquille Leonard due to injury. Speed may assume a bigger role in 2023 with the departure of Bobby Okereke to the New York Giants, despite the assumed return of Leonard.

Speed is now the second in-house free agent that the Colts have re-signed, joining defensive lineman Tyquan Lewis.