We are back with our new series to catch up on how some Ex-Bills are playing at their newer destinations. For today's piece, I reached out to the boys over at Colts Authority to take a look at how Kelvin Sheppard did in Indy this past season and see how they view the Hughes/Sheppard trade. Let's just say they aren't happy.
1) Looking back, how do you feel about the Sheppard/Hughes trade?
At the time, the trade didn't really make sense to me. The Colts needed pass rush, although depth at inside linebacker was somewhat thin. When Sheppard didn't play early on in Indianapolis, and Hughes was playing well in preseason, it validated that a bit. After the season both had, it really seems like a poor decision.
2) What kind of season did Sheppard have?
In a word, disappointing. In the preseason he rarely played, and when he came in as an injury replacement in Week 1, he was absolutely terrible. In the first nine games, Sheppard played more than 6 defensive snaps just three times. In the second half of the season, Sheppard started due to injury, but really disappointed, especially in run defense. All-in-all, the Colts ended up needing ILB depth, but Sheppard was not up to the task most of the time.
3) Why didnt he start much?
He wasn't very good, to be honest. He was a poor tackler right out of the gate, wasn't quick enough in coverage and sloppy in run defense. He started nine games in the end, but he never felt like a starter.
4) How do you feel about Hughes getting over 10 sacks and being pretty decent for the Bills?
Frustrated. Hughes flashed his potential in Indianapolis in '11 and '12, but never had the backing of either the Caldwell or Pagano coaching staffs. It was probably best for him to get a new start somewhere else, but when a team like Indianapolis desperately needed a second pass-rusher it hurts to see a guy you traded away get double-digit sacks.
5) Why didnt Hughes do much in Indy?
Multiple reasons. On the field, he wasn't ever given consistent playing time and was often mis-used as a strong-side OLB or hand-on-the-ground defensive end. That lack of an opportunity miffed Hughes, and he often seemed as if he was giving an inconsistent effort. In the end, the move seems to have paid dividends for Hughes. He's in a new place where he can play the role that best fits him, and by all accounts, it's paying off.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
