The Colts traded outside linebacker Jerry Hughes to the Bills for inside linebacker Kelvin Sheppard, the clubs announced Monday.
The move comes after Indianapolis drafted Florida State defensive end Bjoern Werner in Round One and Buffalo took Oregon linebacker Kiko Alonso in Round Two. Werner will play outside linebacker in the Colts’ 3-4 scheme. while Alonso primarily figures to play inside in the Bills’ defense, which could employ 3-4 and 4-3 looks.
A 201o first-round pick, Hughes (6-2, 254) notched just five sacks in three seasons for Indianapolis. He’s likely to get a look at an edge rusher in the Bills’ scheme and bolsters the club’s OLB depth.
The 6-2, 244-pound Sheppard started 24 games in two seasons with the Bills, recording 150 tackles. At the least, he adds another proven performer at the ILB position and has experience in a “30” front. Indianapolis already has Jerrell Freeman, Pat Angerer and Kavell Conner inside.