When it comes to watching the Indianapolis Colts, you immediately think about players of the past. Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison, and Edgerrin James are the easy three that come to mind. Now there are some new faces and the playoff years are not as prevalent. Here are five guys that will help the Colts try to make the playoffs again in 2016 and beyond.
TJ Green
Green was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He played his college ball at Clemson. He is a former WR. He has tremendous man cover abilities and can also walk down into the box for run support. He is very fast which should help when covering the slot. Also, he can return kicks and should come in and be able to make an immediate impact to a weak secondary. Keep your eye on how the Colts use TJ Green.
Joe Haeg
Haeg is a 6’6″ 304lb OT out of North Dakota State. He has played both left and right tackle as a 4-year starter in college. The Colts are looking for offensive line help. They have a $140 million investment to protect. Haeg should help with that. Keep your eye on Haeg as he moves up the depth chart. He should eventually be a starter.
Ryan Kelly
Kelly is the key piece to the offensive line. He is 6’4″ and 311lbs. He was taken 18th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He was drafted to be an immediate starter and make an immediate impact. Kelly has great feet, hands, and strength. He finishes his blocks and should help anchor the Indianapolis Colts line for years to come. Watch how Kelly controls the Colts o-line.
Robert Mathis
Mathis is coming of off a below average year in 2015. He was not the same after coming off an Achilles injury in 2014. Mathis only had seven sacks in 15 games with the Indianapolis Colt in 2015. If Mathis can return to his 2013 form of 19.5 sacks, the Colts defense should be on point to return to the top. Watch Mathis to see if he can return to the upper echelon of pass rushers.
Andrew Luck
Last year the Indianapolis Colts were in QB hell. Their star QB played hurt and would eventually succumb to his injuries. Luck missed the last seven games of 2015. Though he was not playing to his 2012, 13, or 14 potential, the Indianapolis Colts decided to jump all in. At the end of June, the Colts signed luck to a 6-year $140 million contract. Hopefully, Luck can return to 2014 form. That is what the Indianapolis Colts are banking on.
The Indianapolis Colts were once the cream of the crop in the AFC South. However, the division is on the rise with teams like the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars on the come up. These five guys are already stars and stars on the rise. They should help the Colts return to the top.