Parris Campbell is part of this story: Despite flashing some talent and providing ample hope for the future, the Indianapolis Colts' 2019 season was rocky. After going 10-6 in 2018, the team saw former superstar quarterback Andrew Luck retire ahead of this past regular season. To say head coach Frank Reich had his work cut out for him entering the year would be an understatement.
In Jacoby Brissett's first year as full-time starting quarterback, he led the team to 7 wins. His receiving corps was bitten hard by the injury bug. In addition to Devin Funchess breaking his collarbone, star wideout T.Y. Hilton had nagging injuries all year long. Speedster Parris Campbell experienced more of the same in a seven-game rookie season.
Parris Campbell was selected in the second round of this past year's NFL draft after an impressive senior season at Ohio State. Hauling in 90 passes for 1,063 yards and 12 touchdowns, he established himself as a legitimate threat. Unfortunately for him, though, he didn't get much of a chance to do that in year one in the NFL.
Hamstring, sports hernia, hand and foot injuries held Parris Campbell to just three starts on the season. His final stat line (18 receptions, 127 yards, one touchdown) was a far cry from what Indy expected when it drafted him so high. With that said, he has plenty of time to turn things around.
Reich's system will provide ample opportunities for Campbell's speed to thrive in the offense. First and foremost, he'll have to stay healthy. As the old saying goes — availability is the best ability. By being at full strength this offseason and as he approaches his second season, Campbell's confidence will return and the team will trust him.
Additionally, Brissett is entering a contract year. He signed an extension in September of last year, signaling that the team is trusting him with the keys to the car for one more season. He'll be motivated to play his best football. This opens the door for more balls thrown Campbell's way.
Although Campbell couldn't make a name for himself in his rookie season, the physical tools are there. Possessing a 40-inch vertical and having a 4.31 40-yard dash time under his belt, his ceiling remains very high. As the Colts gear up for another run at the division title after missing out on the playoffs this time around, the entire team will be bought in.
Don't sleep on Parris Campbell in his second season. The offense is there. The speed is there. A downright scary player to cover when he's at his best, expect defenses to take note in the 2020-21 NFL season.
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