Josh Chapman is expected to get the first crack at the Colts' starting nose tackle job. Last year's starter, Aubrayo Franklin, is a free agent and isn't expected to be re-signed. Chapman was the nation's premier run defender in 2011 at Alabama before tearing his ACL and meniscus in his left knee. He played just 306 snaps last season but has a clear path to a starting job this summer. Chapman will be flanked by Arthur Jones, Cory Redding, and Ricky Jean-Francois.

Colts NT Josh Chapman has been deemed "completely healthy" after missing his rookie year with a torn left ACL and meniscus. "I'm full go. I'm 100 percent," said Chapman, referring to his status for OTAs. "I'll be right out there with them." Chapman wound up a "redshirt" player in 2012. He'll enter 2013 with a good chance to start at nose tackle in Chuck Pagano's 3-4 defense, upgrading on Antonio Johnson. Chapman was arguably the premier pure run stopper in college football two seasons ago. He's already been nicknamed "Thug in the Trenches, TNT" by veteran Robert Mathis.

Colts NT Josh Chapman (knee) is expected to be ready to participate in OTAs. Chapman tore his ACL last January and missed his entire rookie year, so he should be more than ready. He and Brandon McKinney will likely battle for the starting nose tackle job.

Colts placed NT Josh Chapman (knee) on injured reserve, ending his season. Interim coach Bruce Arians said the rookie fifth-rounder was making progress in his return from ACL surgery, but the Colts apparently don't believe the knee is ready to contribute. A street free agent will have to be signed to add depth with Fili Moala out for the season. Chapman should contribute as a run-plugger in 2013.

Colts placed NT Josh Chapman on reserve/PUP. A fifth-round rookie out of Alabama, Chapman almost certainly would have been a second-day selection if not for the fact that he was coming off a torn ACL. Rather than rush him back, the Colts will give Chapman another full month and a half to heal. He will be eligible to rejoin the roster after six games.

Colts fifth-round NT Josh Chapman (ACL surgery) said he's "right on schedule." Chapman went under the knife in January. "I'm getting my strength back," he said. "I'm getting back to myself and feeling pretty good." If healthy, Chapman will be competing with Antonio Johnson and Brandon McKinney for snaps at nose tackle in the Colts' new 3-4 scheme.

Colts signed fifth-round NT Josh Chapman to a four-year contract. Chapman's biggest rookie-year obstacle is recovery from a torn ACL and meniscus. When healthy, he is an immovable fire hydrant at 6-foot-1 and 316 pounds. The Colts believe Chapman will be medically cleared before training camp. If so, he'll compete with Brandon McKinney and Antonio Johnson for snaps inside.