Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Colts bring back an old friend to try and improve one of the biggest question marks remaining on their roster ahead of Week 1

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Destin Adams | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 1:05 PM ET

The Indianapolis Colts' LB room behind star Zaire Franklin is a mystery. From who should be the day one starter to who should see significant snaps on defense still seems to be up in the air. As a result, the Colts are looking to an old friend to help improve the outlook of their LB room.

The Colts worked out LB Anthony Walker Jr. late last week, and have now agreed to a deal to bring their former draft pick back to Indianapolis ahead of the 2025 season.

we have signed LB anthony walker jr. to the practice squad and released DT josh tupou from the practice squad.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) September 1, 2025

Colts sign Anthony Walker Jr. to the practice squad

Dec 22, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks (20) celebrates with linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. (6) after sacking San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (not pictured) during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesSam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Colts signed Walker to their practice squad, which reunites the team with their fifth-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Due to the inexperience surrounding Franklin in the LB room, I would be shocked if we don't see Walker elevated to the active roster in the near future. I could even see him being elevated for the season opener vs. the Miami Dolphins.

As things stand, the Colts seem to be planning on having a rotation of players fill the second starting LB role alongside Franklin. Joe Bachie, Cam McGrone, and Jaylon Carlies are all expected to see snaps when healthy. Adding a veteran like Walker Jr. gives the Colts a fourth option who could raise the floor of the position tremendously. It also gives them a reliable backup to Franklin in case he has to miss any time this year due to injury.

The Colts can elevate Walker Jr. from the practice squad for game day twice before they would be forced to place him on the active roster full-time. The danger there, though, is that any team can sign a player off your practice squad, so if Walker shows himself to be a real asset in his first game, I would expect the Colts to consider making the move for him to join the active roster full-time.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: