Sat Mar 29 17:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Colts Linebacker EJ Speed Signs with AFC South Rival Texans

**Indianapolis, IN –** The Indianapolis Colts will be looking for a new starting linebacker in 2025 after veteran EJ Speed signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Houston Texans. The move, reported by Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports, reunites Speed with the AFC South, ending his five-year tenure with the Colts.

Speed, a fifth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, transitioned from a special teams contributor to a starting linebacker in 2024. While he saw increased playing time, his performance dipped in certain areas last season, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). His completion percentage allowed jumped significantly, and his yards per catch allowed also increased.

The departure leaves the Colts with a hole to fill next to starting linebacker Zaire Franklin. The team will likely address this need through both the NFL Draft and free agency. While second-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies is a potential candidate, competition for the starting spot is expected to be fierce. The Colts are also facing a depth issue at linebacker following the departure of Grant Stuard to the Detroit Lions. The team is prioritizing finding a linebacker with strong coverage skills to complement Franklin.

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