C.J. Allen, the Colts’ No. 53 overall pick, was set to become an immediate starting middle linebacker and defensive play-caller this week. Former GM Chris Ballard even said on draft night Allen was drafted for that exact role. But a rough ankle injury last Thursday in practice just slammed the brakes on those plans.
Immediate Impact Delayed
Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo dropped the news on Tuesday, confirming Allen suffered the ankle injury. What’s worse, Anarumo straight up said, “C.J. was going to start this week before he had that injury.” Talk about a brutal blow. This isn’t just about a rookie getting snaps, this is about a guy who was finally about to step into the massive shoes the team drafted him to fill. The Colts were ready for him, and frankly, so were the fans.
Progress Halted, ‘At Bats’ Lost
It’s extra frustrating because Allen had been making real progress in recent weeks. Remember, he was a healthy scratch in Weeks 1 and 4, only seeing 11 defensive snaps across that early timeframe. Anarumo acknowledged Allen’s improvement, saying guys get better with more “at bats.” Now, those crucial “at bats” are on hold while he heals up. The defense, which was finally going to get its leader out there, has to wait. This delay hurts not only Allen’s development but the team’s ability to get him integrated as the defensive play-caller he was drafted to be.
So, now we wait for C.J. Allen’s ankle to heal. The Colts need that defensive play-caller and middle linebacker on the field, especially with the high expectations from draft night. Fans are going to be glued to updates, hoping to see their No. 53 pick back out there leading the charge as soon as possible.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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