Colts' Nate Irving: Competes for starting gig

Irving (wrist) has received first-team reps at inside linebacker during the Colts' first week of OTAs, the team's official site reports.

Analysis:

The Colts are currently searching for Jerrell Freeman's successor at inside linebacker next to D'Qwell Jackson, and, if OTAs are any indication, the frontrunners for the gig include Irving and fellow LB Sio Moore. Both have seen the most first-team reps while Jackson receives rest. However, Irving is coming off of two injury-marred seasons; his 2014 season as a Bronco ended with an ACL tear, and a wrist injury ended his most recent campaign with the Colts. Fortunately, head coach Chuck Pagano reports that Irving finally looks like he's completely over his blown-out knee from two seasons ago. If this is true, Irving could be viewed as the favorite to win this competition.