The Indianapolis Colts are hoping to return from their summer break on July 28 for training camp, barring any changes. We will be previewing the majority of the roster as the summer progresses.
Name: Grover Stewart
Position: DT (1-Tech)
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 315
Age: 26
Free Agent Year: 2021
Background
A fourt-round pick with the Colts during Chris Ballard’s first draft in 2017, Stewart used the first two years of his career to work on his game and get acclimated to the NFL. While he had limited production during that span, he had a strong 2019 campaign that showed he’s ready to take the next step as a starter on the interior defensive line.
He played in all 16 games (13 starts) while recording 3.0 sacks, 5.0 tackles for loss and five quarterback hits.
Expected Role
Though the Colts brought in veteran Sheldon Day from the 49ers on a one-year deal this offseason, the starting role at the one-technique should be Stewart’s to lose. He showed in 2019 that he can handle the workload and be a productive player against the run while also showing some juice as a pass rusher.
2020 Outlook
The Colts are hoping that Stewart can continue his development as a solid piece on the interior. This is a big year for the Albany State product given that he will be a free agent once the 2020 season ends. It doesn’t appear an extension is in line before the season starts, though there is still a few weeks to go upon this writing.
Stewart has the size and explosiveness to be a solid starter at the one-technique working alongside DeForest Buckner. If there is a defensive player looking to make a jump in 2020, look no further than Stewart.
Bottom Line
Coming from a Division-II program, it has taken Stewart some time to be a productive asset. But he proved he could do it in 2019. Now, he has to do it all over again in a contract year to prove to the front office he belongs to stay in Indy.