Colts’ defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore appears to be making a big jump in his second NFL season.
“He’s probably, if you look at the D-line group, we’ve had conversations that he’s probably one of the most improved,” said defensive coordinator Gus Bradley on Tuesday.
In the Colts’ first preseason game against Denver, Adetomiwa had plenty of opportunities while the defensive front was a bit short-handed without DeForest Buckner or Raekwon Davis. Adebawore would play 44 snaps in total, with 25 coming against the pass, and was able to record four pressures, including three quarterback hits.
In fact, among all interior defenders who played at least eight preseason snaps in Week 1, Adebawore ranked 22nd in PFF’s pass rush win rate metric.
An elite athlete, Adebawore’s ability to get after the quarterback is where he’s at his best, often winning with speed. But during Sunday’s contest, we saw a pass rusher also winning with power, and making an impact in the run game.
Adebawore finished the game with two tackles, and recorded on run-stop. Again, out of the 100-plus eligible interior defenders, Adebawore ranked 33rd in PFF’s run defense grading system.
Oftentimes it is in a player’s second season that we see the biggest developmental leap take place. There are many reasons for this, including the comfortability with the speed of the NFL level, the continuity of being in the same system for a second season, and having a full offseason to focus on their craft, rather than the pre-draft process.
“From where he was–you see that sometime in second-year players, where they get a better feel,” added Bradley. “Their offseason they may change a few things here and there, realizing after going through a season what they need to work on.
“But give credit to himself–he’s done a great job. And then the D-line coaching staff has really worked with him too. It’s been good. He’s been more consistent versus the run and the pass. So we’re pleased with where he’s at right now.”
At the top of the Colts’ defensive tackle rotation will be Buckner, Grover Stewart, and Raekwon Davis. However, that fourth spot, which comes with playing time, is up for grabs. This appears to be a two-man race between Adebawore and Taven Bryan.
Both players have shown the ability to get after the quarterback, so the ability to hold up as a run defender consistently may be a determining factor in who wins that role.
“Tomi, he coming along, man,” said Stewart. “He getting all his technique down and he just working on the little stuff.”