Shane Steichen
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WESTFIELD, INDIANA - JULY 29: Head coach Shane Steichen of the Indianapolis Colts directs his team during the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp at Grand Park on July 29, 2025 in Westfield, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The Indianapolis Colts had one of the NFL’s worst defenses in 2024, ranking 29th in total yards allowed. But this offseason, Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard made sure that result wouldn’t repeat itself.
During an appearance on Up & Adams this week, Steichen raved about the new-look Colts defense. The third-year head coach didn’t hesitate to agree when asked if “defense will be a strength” for Indianapolis this season.
After missing the playoffs for the last four years, Steichen and the coaching staff are determined to bring the Colts back to their physical identity and reestablish a style of play that dictates the tempo on both sides of the football.
Colts Defense Is In Redemption Mode
The defense entered training camp with a prove-it mantra, and so far the performances have been positive. Steichen mentioned that it all starts on the frontlines.
And if the secondary can stabilize as injured starters return, the Colts’ defense could enter the regular season as the team’s most reliable unit.
“I think obviously with the defensive line with (DeForest) Buckner and Grover (Stewart) and (Laiatu) Latu and Kwity (Paye) and Samson (Ebukam), those guys up front. Adding Neville (Gallimore) is big. And Zaire (Franklin) in the middle. I think Nick Cross is really coming on going into his next year.. And obviously we have some competition going on at the corner spot. I really like where our defense is at, and the aggressive nature we’re playing with in training camp.”
The secondary performed well on Monday during a team scrimmage, led by Camryn Bynum breaking up passes and a later interception by Charvarious Ward on a pass from Anthony Richardson.
Steichen Heaps Praise On Lou Anarumo
The seven-year defensive coordinator’s arrival to Indianapolis couldn’t have come at a more opportune time.
Known around the league for his detailed game-planning and ability to adjust on the fly, Anarumo has stepped into the DC role implementing a system that demands discipline and physicality from every level of the defense.
In camp, Steichen has highlighted the way Anarumo communicates with players, breaking down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps.
“He is very demanding,” Steichen said. “I love that about him. His scheme’s multiple on the back end, putting guys into position to go make plays. Holds those guys accountable, and I think that’s really good.”
His track record with the Miami Dolphins and Cincinnati Bengals brings a different energy to the franchise.
An ability to create game plans that frustrate elite quarterbacks has been proven time and again — from holding Patrick Mahomes in check during the 2021 AFC Championship to consistently fielding top-10 pass defenses with the Bengals — his emphasis on disguising coverages and winning situational football fits perfectly with Steichen’s vision of a disciplined team.