Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Two more potential Colts

In the past few days the Colts have looked at one veteran free agent, linebacker Adam Seward, and one draftable guy, Portland State cornerback Reggie Jones. Here’s rundown:

Adam Seward (6022/248/4.60c in 05) was a very productive inside linebacker in UNLV’s 3-4, but looked on tape to be a college star who lacked the athleticism to be an NFL starter. He surprised everyone with a great Combine showing, and was drafted by the Panthers in the fifth round. It hasn’t really worked out that well for either party. In four seasons with Carolina, Seward has played in 40 games (one start), recording 16 tackles, 4 assists and one fumble recovery. He was a pretty solid player, especially on specials, and showed an ability to clog the middle on running plays; but he was behind both Jon Beason and Dan Connor on the depth chart. If he were to join the Colts, Seward probably wouldn’t challenge for a starting spot, but could take over the swing backup/special teamer spot Rocky Boiman used to hold down.

Reggie Jones (5113/193/4.43pd) is an outstanding athlete who’s very raw for a couple of reasons — he transferred from Idaho to Portland State, missing a whole year, and was moved from wide receiver to cornerback. And he’s had some trouble, too. When his mom went to prison, he took over the care of his two younger sisters. It affected his studies, and he was doing poorly at Idaho. But a determined Portland State coach — former NFL and CFL stalwart Alundis Brice — helped him out, and Jones blossomed on the field and in the classroom. As a corner, he has all the tools, but would take some time to develop. He has some experience as a return man and natural run skills, so he could be worth a roster spot while the coaches see if he can contribute on defense. He’ll be drafted in the seventh round if at all, but has potential steal written all over him.

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