Outside linebacker Tyjuan Hagler is doubtful for Colts camp

By Tom James
Tribune-Star Correspondent

INDIANAPOLIS July 01, 2008 10:50 pm

— The Indianapolis Colts may be without one of their starting outside linebackers when training camp begins at Rose-Hulman on July 24.
Tyjuan Hagler, who has battled a variety of injuries since arriving in Indianapolis as a fifth-round draft choice in 2005, reportedly suffered a torn pectoral muscle while lifting weights last week.
According to an Internet report by NFL.com writer Adam Schefter, Hagler is expected to miss most — if not all — of training camp and could be sidelined for nearly two months.
The injury will probably keep the former University of Cincinnati standout on the sidelines for the team’s Sept. 9 regular-season home opener against the Chicago Bears. Team officials have yet to confirm or deny the injury or its possible ramifications.
Hagler started seven regular-season games a year ago and was in the starting lineup in the Colts’ home playoff loss to San Diego. He made four starts at weak-side linebacker, filling in for the injured Freddie Keiaho, before moving to take over for Rob Morris as the starter at strong-side linebacker.
The Kankakee, Ill., native had 54 total tackles and a quarterback sack last season.
The injury to Hagler could mean increased playing time for second-year outside linebacker Clint Session or rookie outside linebacker Philip Wheeler. Session, a fourth-round draft pick in 2007, started against the Chargers in the regular season and had 23 total tackles with two interceptions and a forced fumble last year.
Wheeler, the Colts’ third-round draft choice in April, can play all three linebacking positions. He saw work primarily as a backup to middle linebacker Gary Brackett during the team’s spring workouts and organized team activities. Second-year outside linebacker Victor Worsley, who was sidelined most of last year with an injury, may also be in the mix.
Hagler could end up being one of three Indianapolis defensive starters sitting out training camp, along with defensive end Dwight Freeney (foot) and strong safety Bob Sanders (shoulders). Freeney and Sanders underwent surgery but are expected to be available for the nationally televised Bears game at Lucas Oil Stadium.