For the second time in just four games this season, Indianapolis Colts rookie linebacker CJ Allen rode the pine, not logging a single defensive snap. This is a head-scratcher for a second-round draft pick, especially when other guys are flying all over the field.
The Invisible Rookie
It’s not like the Colts’ linebacking corps is just locked in. Akeem Davis-Gaither played 62 of the 64 offensive snaps in the game, and you’ve got Jaylon Carlies and Bryce Boettcher constantly rotating at the WILL linebacker spot. Even Austin Ajiake got a decent run, seeing 17 snaps. But Allen? He’s practically invisible. Entering Week 5, this dude had only seen 11 defensive snaps all season. That’s a brutal number for a high pick. ESPN’s Stephen Holder dropped a stat that’ll make you double-take: Rams tight end Max Klare, with 10 snaps, is the only other second-round pick this year who’s played less than Allen. Talk about being buried on the depth chart.
The Coach’s Take
So, what’s the deal? Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo stepped up to explain the situation, and it sheds some light on why Allen isn’t seeing the field. According to Anarumo, guys like Ajiake and Allen are playing “Two totally different positions.” Anarumo specifically said Ajiake gets in on “pass situations” when they’re “anticipating a certain thing,” playing “dime,” while Allen plays “backer.” The coach also made it clear that Akeem Davis-Gaither is “playing well right now” at the MIKE linebacker spot, which is where the Colts strictly view Allen. Anarumo admitted that with it being a relatively low snap count on Sunday, there was “no need to rest Davis-Gaither.” It sounds like they’re happy with their starter and Allen is just the backup for now.
Anarumo isn’t exactly trashing Allen though. He stressed that “CJ’s getting better each week in practice. He will get his opportunities.” He even added, “Not down on CJ, he’s working his tail off. He’ll have his opportunity.” But let’s be real, for the time being, it doesn’t sound like those snap counts are going to jump anytime soon. Allen is stuck watching, learning, and waiting for his shot. For a second-round pick, that’s gotta sting.
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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