Colt’s General Manager Chris Ballard keeps his word regarding signing his own. According to NFL Reporter Mike Garafolo, the Colts are signing linebacker E.J. Speed to a two-year contract worth $8 million. The news broke Wednesday apart of NFL free agency.
E.J. Speed will make $1.58 million in 2023. Speed received a $2.92 million signing bonus.
Speed’s role increased in 2023 with Shaquille Leonard dealing with multiple injuries. Speed recorded 63 tackles, 1 sack, and 2 forced fumbles. Speed showed his range and fit in with Gus Bradley’s defense. Speed received an 82.8 grade against the run by Pro Football Focus.
Speed has played in 61 games and has recorded 110 tackles. Speed has also recorded 8 tackles for loss during his career.
Speed has been a key player on special teams. Speed has made significant plays for Indy’s special teams and played a role in Indy’s wins. Speed has scored two touchdowns on special teams. Both came from blocked punts.
Speed was drafted in 2019 and played college football at Tarleton State. Speed has improved each year of his career.
Speed’s role will increase in 2023. Linebacker Bobby Okereke signed a four-year contract worth $40 million with the New York Giants.
