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One of the big position battles to keep an eye on at Indianapolis Colts training camp will come at defensive end where both starting roles are up for grabs.
As Pro Football Focus projected the starting lineup for the Colts, it was rookie Kwity Paye and fourth-year Tyquan Lewis who got the nod as the starting defensive ends.
It’s a pretty crowded room on the edge for the Colts, but this might be the most likely outcome in regards to the starting duo. Kemoko Turay, Ben Banogu and Al-Quadin Muhammad will be fighting for roles as well.
We know the Colts like to rotate their defensive linemen, and this is especially true when it comes to the edge rushers. Typically, the starters will see about 60-70% of the snaps in a game.
The hope is that the rookie in Paye can come in and make an immediate impact. He doesn’t have to be an All-Pro in Year 1, but he can help elevate this unit in a big way if he’s able to capture a starting gig and use his athleticism to make some plays in the backfield.
Lewis is in a contract year but faces a chance to really carve out a big role on the defensive line. He will also work on the interior at times, but he can make an impact working from the edge on a regular basis.
With a stout interior, the edge rusher room is one that will elevate the Colts the most if they can get a mix of consistency with splash games from players like Paye and Turay.
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