Pat Angerer

Angerer will be well behind Freeman on almost all cheatsheets, but Angerer likely would have been a strong IDP option himself in 2012 if it weren't for a broken foot he suffered in August. Angerer attempted to return from the injury, perhaps too soon, during Week 7, but he never got in stride from there. He finished 2012 with just 28 tackles after posting 146 the year before, so he clearly wasn't himself. With the whole offseason to regain his health, though, Angerer should establish himself as a three-down linebacker next to Freeman, and IDP relevance should come with that role.

Give Angerer a boost in leagues that values assist and solo tackles equally, but Angerer’s 148 tackles last year aren't that impressive given that only 78 were solo. Still, 80 solo stops should be Angerer’s floor in 2012, as he should get plenty of tackle opportunities in what could be a rough transition to the 3-4 for Indianapolis. The Colts don't appear to have the on-paper personnel to run the formation effectively, which in theory should result in Angerer dragging down a lot of ballcarriers as runners break into the second level. Even if the Colts do well in the 3-4, Angerer should be a reliable tackle source since he should be more active at the point of attack in the 3-4 than he was in the 4-3.

Angerer will start at strong-side linebacker this season. He put in strong performances when put into the starting lineup last season, so he could become an IDP star in a starting role.

Angerer, a hard-working and productive run defender, gives the Colts some middle linebacker depth. He's also excellent in coverage. He should be a good fit at any of the Colts' three linebacker spots and is a good sleeper to keep an eye on as a rookie IDP.