Cam Bynum’s first season with the Indianapolis Colts gave the defense plenty to work with, even if Jeremy Fowler’s annual safety rankings didn’t give him a single mention.
That omission stands out because Fowler’s list is not a simple one-person exercise. It’s built with input from 70 NFL execs, coaches and scouts, with additional research, interviews and film study from Matt Bowen helping shape the final top 10, honorable mentions and vote-getters. This year, Bynum’s name never surfaced.
On the field, though, Bynum made his presence felt. After arriving from the Vikings with a reputation for creating turnovers, he delivered in Indianapolis by picking off four passes and breaking up three more. Opponents didn’t have much success when throwing his way, posting a 66.3 passer rating against him.
He also held up as a tackler, finishing 79 of 84 attempts. That kind of reliability helped him stand out as a run defender from the safety spot.
The Colts value more than just the splash plays, too. Bynum’s versatility gives defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo options on the back end, where he can be used in a range of roles. His ability to affect both the run and the passing game fits neatly with Anarumo’s disguise-heavy approach.
There’s also the quieter work that matters just as much. Bynum helps organize the secondary, making sure everyone is lined up properly, relaying responsibilities and pointing out adjustments before the snap.
So while he didn’t appear in this year’s rankings, Bynum’s role in the Colts’ defense is hard to miss.
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