The Colts have added a potential starter at linebacker, or at the very least, positional depth and a core special teamer.
The Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday that the team has signed Cincinnati Bengals free agent linebacker Joe Bachie:
The listed 6’2,” 235 pound linebacker (with 31 3/4” arms) was originally signed as a 2020 undrafted free agent by the New Orleans Saints, before later playing for both the Philadelphia Eagles (2020) and Bengals (2021-24)—the latter under new Colts veteran defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
During his 5-year career, Bachie has 48 tackles (26 solo) and a pass defensed during 51 career games (2 starts).
Per PFF, Bachie earned a +63.7 overall grade last year, which was highlighted by a +69.2 run defense grade.
The Colts have a clear opening alongside starting 2nd-Team All-Pro linebacker Zaire Franklin in their second level. Bachie could compete for the role, particularly on run defense downs, with 2nd-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies being deployed in coverage as part of a platoon.
Perhaps, the Colts are also looking for Bachie to help replace departed linebacker Grant Stuard, who was also solid in run defense when called upon and a core special teamer.
At the very least, Bachie’s addition gives the Colts some much needed depth in their linebacking corps and greater flexibility than they previously had entering the day.
It’ll be interesting to see how the Colts envision utilizing him next season, whether it’s under Anarumo’s first-team defense or even as a key special teams player.
