As the summer heat gives way to the crispness of autumn, NFL training camps signal the beginning of a new football season. For the Indianapolis Colts, the 2024 training camp is more than just preparation. It's a battleground where positions are won and lost, and futures are forged. This year, several key positions are up for grabs. This promises intense competition and provides fans with a tantalizing preview of the season ahead. Here, we dive into the top three training camp battles to watch as the Colts gear up for the 2024 NFL season.
The Colts So Far
The Colts still might not be entirely certain if Anthony Richardson is their long-term answer at quarterback. This is especially true after his rookie season was cut short by a shoulder injury following just four starts. However, they are confident in his talent and potential to develop into a franchise player. One unequivocal positive from last season was their satisfaction with the hiring of head coach Shane Steichen. He has certainly impressed both players and management.
Despite significant investment in the offensive line, the Colts have not seen the returns they expected. Recall that they have the second-highest cap allocation in the NFL dedicated to this group. Strangely enough, their performance has been underwhelming. They ranked 26th in Pass Block Win Rate (PBWR) and 14th in Run Block Win Rate (RBWR) in 2023. Improving the line's performance is critical. They have to protect Richardson as he returns from injury, given his physical playing style.
EJ Speed had a standout 2023 season. He was 20th in coverage DVOA among linebackers and 17th in average run-game tackle yards allowed at just 3.2 yards. However, Speed will become a free agent after the upcoming season. As such, his future with the team is uncertain. Additionally, the defense faces concerns about aging. Five starters, including Speed, defensive linemen Grover Stewart and DeForest Buckner, edge rusher Samson Ebukam, and nickelback Kenny Moore II, will all turn 29 or older by the season's end.
Here we'll look at the surprising player who could make or break the Indianapolis Colts' playoff hopes in the 2024 NFL season.
Wide Receiver
Alec Pierce has averaged 36.5 catches, 553.5 yards, and two touchdowns per season. Despite his potential as a deep threat, he hasn't yet convinced the Colts he can be more than that. That is partly due to inconsistent opportunities with a stable quarterback. Now, Pierce faces stiff competition for playing time. The Colts' second-round pick, Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, will challenge him for snaps.
Mitchell has been receiving glowing reviews since joining the Colts. His skill set seems to complement Michael Pittman Jr and Josh Downs perfectly. The question is, how will Pierce respond to this challenge? Sure, Mitchell is a promising addition. However, Pierce played a significant role in Steichen's offense last year, even with just 65 targets. Can Pierce demonstrate enough development to push back against Mitchell, or will the rookie secure the spot decisively?
Tight End
Veteran Kylen Granson led Colts tight ends last season with 30 catches, 368 yards, and 510 snaps. While reliable, he has not been particularly explosive. Mo Alie-Cox, known more for his in-line blocking, recorded three touchdown catches and will likely compete with versatile blocker Drew Ogletree. Rookie Will Mallory also showcased his potential over the middle. He tallied 18 catches for 207 yards on 159 snaps.
Enter Jelani Woods. The 2022 third-round pick missed all of the 2023 season due to hamstring injuries. That said, he brings a unique size-speed combination that none of the other tight ends possess. Woods has the potential to be a devastating downfield target, offering a dynamic element to the Colts' tight end group.
Defensive End
The Colts set a franchise record with 51 sacks last season and bolstered their pass rush by drafting UCLA star Laiatu Latu in the first round. Latu’s addition should impact the distribution of playing time among the pass rushers.
Samson Ebukam led the team with 9.5 sacks in 702 snaps last season. Kwity Paye followed with 8.5 sacks in 700 snaps. Dayo Odeyingbo broke out with eight sacks in 622 snaps, and Tyquan Lewis contributed four sacks in 436 snaps. Latu’s presence will create intense competition for playing time, particularly on critical downs.
Latu is likely to line up primarily at the LEO position, which Ebukam occupied last season. Odeyingbo will probably see most of his action from the interior. That's a role Lewis can also fill, although both have experience on the edge. Paye needs to prove he deserves a significant long-term deal. The addition of Latu makes it challenging for players like Isaiah Land, Genard Avery, and Titus Leo to secure roster spots.
Looking Ahead
As the Colts' training camp progresses, these battles will not only determine the starting lineup. They will also set the tone for the entire season. Each of these competitions—whether it’s the electrifying duel between Pierce and Mitchell, the tight end tussle between Woods and Alie-Cox, or the edge rusher showdown featuring Ebukam and Odeyingbo—carries with it the promise of transformation. Colts fans should keep a close eye on these battles, as the outcomes will shape the future of the franchise. The road to the 2024 season is paved with uncertainty. Still, there is potential for greatness, making this training camp unmissable for Colts fans all over.
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