Texans Bolster Defense with E.J. Speed Signing
The Houston texans have substantially strengthened their linebacker corps, securing a one-year, $5 million deal with E.J. Speed. the agreement, finalized Saturday, brings the productive linebacker to Houston after a notable season with the Indianapolis Colts.
Speed’s Breakout Season and Extraordinary Stats
Speed, 29, is coming off a career year where he racked up impressive statistics as a full-time starter for the Colts. In 2024, he recorded 142 tackles, placing him 12th in the NFL. Furthermore, he tallied 7 tackles for loss and 5 pass deflections. His 93 solo tackles were tied for the third-most amongst all players in the league. Throughout his career, Speed has also forced six fumbles, demonstrating his playmaking ability.
From Special Teams to Defensive Stalwart
Initially drafted in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft from Tarleton State, Speed began his career as a special teams specialist.However, his dedication and performance propelled him into a crucial role within the Colts’ defense. By 2023, he began to earn playing time, even in situations where former All-Pro Shaquille Leonard was available but potentially not at full health. prior to the 2023 season, the Colts recognized his growth and potential, signing him to a two-year contract extension.
strengths and Areas for Betterment
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 227 pounds, Speed possesses exceptional size and athleticism for the linebacker position. His speed and agility enable him to consistently pursue the ball carrier and make plays across the field.He has also demonstrated versatility by taking on considerable coverage responsibilities within the Colts’ defensive scheme.
One area where Speed aims to improve is his tackle efficiency.In 2024, his missed tackle rate was among the highest in the league, occasionally leading to important gains for opposing offenses. Addressing this aspect of his game will be a key focus as he transitions to the Texans’ defense.
How might E.J. Speed’s high missed tackle rate impact his role and effectiveness within the Texans’ defensive scheme?
Texans Bolster Defense with E.J. Speed Signing
The Houston texans have substantially strengthened their linebacker corps, securing a one-year, $5 million deal with E.J. Speed. the agreement,finalized Saturday,brings the productive linebacker to Houston after a notable season with the indianapolis Colts.
Speed’s Breakout Season and Remarkable Stats
Speed, 29, is coming off a career year where he racked up remarkable statistics as a full-time starter for the Colts. In 2024, he recorded 142 tackles, placing him 12th in the NFL. Furthermore, he tallied 7 tackles for loss and 5 pass deflections. His 93 solo tackles were tied for the third-most amongst all players in the league. Throughout his career,Speed has also forced six fumbles,demonstrating his playmaking ability.
from Special Teams to Defensive Stalwart
Initially drafted in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft from Tarleton State, Speed began his career as a special teams specialist.However, his dedication and performance propelled him into a crucial role within the Colts’ defense. By 2023, he began to earn playing time, even in situations where former All-Pro Shaquille Leonard was available but potentially not at full health. prior to the 2023 season, the Colts recognized his growth and potential, signing him to a two-year contract extension.
strengths and Areas for Betterment
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 227 pounds, Speed possesses exceptional size and athleticism for the linebacker position. His speed and agility enable him to consistently pursue the ball carrier and make plays across the field.He has also demonstrated versatility by taking on considerable coverage responsibilities within the Colts’ defensive scheme.
One area where Speed aims to improve is his tackle efficiency.In 2024, his missed tackle rate was among the highest in the league, occasionally leading to critically important gains for opposing offenses. Addressing this aspect of his game will be a key focus as he transitions to the Texans’ defense.
E.J. Speed: Q&A
What’s the buzz about E.J. Speed joining the Texans?
The Houston Texans are beefing up their defense! They’ve signed linebacker E.J. Speed to a one-year, $5 million deal. After a standout season with the Indianapolis Colts, Speed brings a proven track record of tackles and playmaking to Houston.
How good was Speed in his breakout season?
In 2023, Speed was a tackling machine. He recorded 142 tackles (12th in the NFL), 7 tackles for loss, and 5 pass deflections. His 93 solo tackles were tied for third-most in the league. He’s also forced six fumbles throughout his career, showing he can create turnovers.
Where did Speed come from?
E.J. Speed was drafted in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.Before the NFL, he played college football at Tarleton State.
What’s his path to becoming a starter?
Speed started as a special teams player. Through hard work and impressive performance, he earned a bigger role within the Colts’ defense, even playing over former All-Pro Shaquille Leonard at times. The Colts recognized his growth and signed him to a two-year contract extension.
What are Speed’s strengths on the field?
speed is a big and athletic linebacker (6’4″, 227 lbs). His speed and agility allow him to chase down ball carriers and make plays all over the field. He’s also proven to be versatile, taking on coverage responsibilities.
What does Speed need to work on?
One area for improvement is his tackling efficiency. His missed tackle rate was high in 2023, which sometimes led to big gains for opponents.Improving this will be a focus with the Texans.
Engaging fact about E.J. Speed?
Speed’s journey highlights how players can develop and rise through the ranks in the NFL with dedication and hard work.Keep an eye on him; his story is a testament to never giving up!
With E.J. Speed joining the team, the Texans defense looks to be getting stronger. Keep watching as the season unfolds and see how he impacts the team’s performance!
