The Indianapolis Colts have struggled to find a consistent second starter at linebacker next to Zaire Franklin. After trying different players like Joe Bachie, Cameron McGrone and Austin Ajiake, Indy decided more help was needed.
That’s why the Colts decided to sign linebacker Germaine Pratt, a 29-year-old with ties to defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, in an attempt to nail down a reliable starting duo as they prepare for a playoff push.
But the Colts do have Jaylon Carlies, who’s been on injured reserve since roster deadline day with an ankle injury. Carlies had been given a designation to return, meaning the Colts are expecting him back at some point this season. Because of this, Carlies hasn’t had a chance to see if he can be the guy next to Franklin.
The signing of Pratt suggests a couple of things. Firstly, Carlies’ injury could be more severe than the Colts have let on. Perhaps his absence will be longer than originally anticipated, maybe even for the rest of the season.
After all, Carlies hasn’t played much football recently, as he suffered his ankle injury in Indy’s first preseason game. Prior to that, his last game was the Colts’ 2024 regular season finale Jan. 5.
Bringing in Pratt could also be a sign that Anarumo simply doesn’t favor Carlies and wants a player who he’s more comfortable with to run his scheme. Plus, Pratt does have postseason experience, making seven starts across two different playoff runs, one of which took the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI.
Pratt still has to earn the starting job, and there’s no telling exactly what the Colts plan is for him. But for Carlies, a second-year player who’s been battling injuries, the chances of getting on the field, let alone making an impact, are significantly slimmer with the 29-year-old now in the mix.