The Indianapolis Colts made a huge splash in free agency by agreeing to a one-year, $25 million deal with veteran quarterback Philip Rivers. After a tough 2019 season that saw Andrew Luck retire and Jacoby Brissett struggle at times, the team has to feel good about their position heading into 2020. Rivers is a huge upgrade and will provide Indianapolis with much more firepower offensively.
Rivers has been a star in the NFL for years, but received a ton of criticism for his 2019 season. In 2019, he threw 20 interceptions, which is why many are saying he is “regressing” or that he had a “down season.” However, despite the 20 interceptions, Rivers actually had a good season for the Los Angeles Chargers.
In addition to his interception total, Rivers completed an impressive 66 percent of his pass attempts for 4,615 yards and 23 touchdowns. Those numbers don't really scream “regression” in any way, shape, or form.
Not only should the fans be excited to have Rivers on board, but there are also quite a few players who should be excited as well. While Brissett is a quality quarterback, the Colts are going to see receivers and tight ends take a jump with Rivers leading the way.
All of that being said, let's take a look at one player who will benefit the most from Rivers joining the Colts.
Which Colts Player Will Reap The Benefits Of Rivers The Most?
The answer to this is question is quite simple. Jack Doyle is going to be the player that benefits the most from Rivers being the Colts' new quarterback.
Rivers has a long history of utilizing tight ends heavily. Just remember the connection he had with Antonio Gates. That isn't us saying that Doyle is an Antonio Gates type of player, but he is an excellent receiving tight end, runs great routes, and has consistent hands.
Last season with the Colts, Doyle took over the primary tight end job from Eric Ebron. That came after a massive breakout season from Ebron. His role in 2019 shows just how much the Colts like him.
Doyle ended up catching 43 passes for 448 yards and four touchdowns. They aren't huge numbers, but Brissett didn't give him the looks that Rivers will. There is a good chance that Doyle will see his targets rise to over 100 after being targeted 72 times last season.
Frank Reich and offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni run a system that Rivers is very familiar with. He will basically be running the same offense that he has had for the majority of his career. That familiarity will allow him to hit the ground running in an offseason that could be shortened quite a bit due to the coronavirus.
The Colts aren't going to see Doyle end up becoming a 1,000-yard receiving tight end, but it would be reasonable to expect 60 receptions and 750 yards from him with at least six or seven touchdowns. Doyle's numbers are going to rise at a very noticeable rate.
Follow Us
Subscribe