Colts Re-Sign Promising Linebacker Liam Anderson to Practice Squad: Could He Be the Next Hidden Gem?
The Indianapolis Colts have made another move to bolster their depth, signing linebacker Liam Anderson to the practice squad. Anderson, who has already seen action with the team this season, returns to the Colts after spending time both on the active roster and the practice squad in 2024.
Anderson’s Journey to the NFL
At 6-3 and 226 pounds, Anderson has shown that he has the physical tools to compete at the NFL level. After going undrafted in 2023, he signed with the Colts as a free agent on May 5. His journey to the professional ranks was shaped by a standout collegiate career at Holy Cross, where he made a name for himself as one of the most dynamic linebackers in the Patriot League.
Over the course of his five-year career at Holy Cross (2018-2022), Anderson appeared in 53 games and made 30 starts. He put together impressive stats that showcased his versatility, compiling 231 tackles (148 solo), 37.5 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 11 passes defensed, six interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown), two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. His efforts earned him First Team All-Patriot League honors in both 2021 and 2022.
2024 Season and Colts’ Confidence in Anderson
Despite going undrafted, Anderson’s performance in training camp and throughout the early part of the 2024 season caught the attention of the Colts’ coaching staff. He appeared in three games this season, proving that he has the ability to contribute at the professional level. Though his time with the Colts has primarily been spent on the practice squad, his experience with the active roster shows that the team is comfortable giving him a shot when needed.
In his rookie season in 2023, Anderson played in one game for the Colts and spent most of the year on the practice squad. While it’s been a challenging start to his NFL career, Anderson’s hard work and determination have not gone unnoticed, and his return to the practice squad shows that the Colts see potential in the young linebacker.
Colts’ Long-Term Vision
This move reflects the Colts’ ongoing commitment to developing talent and strengthening their roster for the future. With the linebacker position being a critical part of the defense, Anderson’s continued presence with the team provides valuable depth. It also allows the coaching staff to continue evaluating his growth and readiness to contribute in more significant roles as the season progresses.
While it may be a few weeks before Anderson earns another opportunity on the active roster, his signing to the practice squad keeps him in the mix for future call-ups. The Colts are building for the long haul, and players like Anderson—who have shown potential—will be key to their defensive future.
As Indianapolis continues to focus on its development pipeline, Anderson’s return to the practice squad provides a glimpse into the team’s commitment to giving young, promising players the chance to grow and contribute when the time is right.
