The Indianapolis Colts defensive secondary has undergone an entire makeover. Making this strategic change is huge, and this strategic overhaul marks a big change in how they approach this important facet of the game. Entering 2023, the Colts promised a complete cultural shift from production to production at the top of the chain, playmaking down the line contrary. The hiring of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has been the catalyst for a dramatic turnaround. No wonder his influence has been paramount in steering the ship on the team’s personnel decisions this spring.
The Colts’ secondary would be the perfect landing spot for talented but misused acquisitions such as Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum. Both players bring extensive experience and skill to the midfield. Ward, a cornerback who previously played for the San Francisco 49ers, signed a rich three-year contract averaging $54 million. His addition should add an exciting, playmaking flavor to the team’s defense. In a parallel move, Camryn Bynum, a safety for the Vikings, recently signed a four-year, $60 million deal. These tactical maneuvers mark a notable break from the Colts’ prior surplus conservatism when it came to their secondary.
Last year, the Colts featured a very young and inexperienced secondary. Only one player, Kenny Moore II, hit the over $5 million mark against the salary cap. The team took an impressively frugal approach, but it was a big sacrifice. Not surprisingly, their performance took a hit as they ranked 30th in opponent completion rate at 69.4% and 27th in yards per attempt allowed at 7.6. Unlike this year, previous iterations of the Colts took the opposite approach. They are betting big on their secondary to ensure they win in the future.
Lou Anarumo’s return is inextricably tied to these personnel moves. Long a defensive wizard, Anarumo has earned acclaim for his defensive mind. He will use his vast experience to ensure the newly fortified lineup makes the most of its potential. Under his guidance, the Colts hope to turn their secondary into an intimidating, playmaking unit.
"I think we're going to have a playmaking secondary," said Charvarius Ward.
Ward’s confidence is mirrored by fellow defensive back Camryn Bynum, who said playmaking is essential to a good defense.
"You get paid off of how many times you can touch the ball to take the ball away," remarked Camryn Bynum.
Those feelings are a perfect match for the often stated strategic vision that is being carried out by Anarumo and the Colts’ leadership. Getting established talent such as Ward and Bynum not only shows that they’re serious about improving the teams defensive output. This strategy is about changing the overall optic of the team in the league.
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