While the Indianapolis Colts' offense has garnered most of the attention during an unexpected 5-1 start, the defense deserves its flowers, also.
Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has done an outstanding job with the unit, which ranks fourth in points allowed per game (19.3) and 12th in rushing yards given up per contest (96.3).
Sadly for the Colts, they might not get to enjoy Anarumo for more than one season, as The Athletic's Dianna Russini reports he's on the early short list of head coaching candidates for the Tennessee Titans, who recently fired Brian Callahan.
Along with Anarumo, Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith were also mentioned.
We would add that Anarumo will almost certainly be considered for other gigs that open up, so that only increases the chances he moves on from Indy after one season.
When it comes to the trade deadline, the Colts are looking to improve their defense, and more specifically cornerback, Russini writes.
"The Colts are looking to bolster their defense, specifically at cornerback," Russini reported.
As good as the Colts have been on defense overall, the pass defense has left a lot to be desired, with Indianapolis ranking 22nd in that area.
The pass-rush has been sufficient with 16 sacks, which ranks tied for the seventh-most in the NFL. That's good news because acquiring an edge rusher is difficult.
At cornerback, the unexpected retirement of Xavien Howard was a curveball, and Charvarius Ward is currently dealing with an injury and is going to miss his third game this season in Week 7.
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