When you watch the Indianapolis Colts, you notice one thing. T.Y. Hilton is a legit NFL receiver. In 2016 Hilton led the Colts with 1,448 yards receiving. He was far and above the best receiver on the team. The next closest is a TE. Yes, I said TE. What can Hilton do to improve on 2016?
T.Y Hilton was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. He was a three-year starter at Florida International. He is a deep threat receiver who will create separation with speed alone. Hilton is an excellent route runner. Started in the slot but eventually moved outside with changes in the offense.
In five season with the Colts Hilton has only missed two games. He did not even miss the game in which his daughter was born. He actually scored a TD in that game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He is starting to show that he is becoming a very reliable player.
Just before the start of the 2015 season, Hilton signed a contract extension. It was a 5-year extension worth $65 million with $39 million guaranteed. The Colts showed Hilton with this contract that they wanted him around for the long haul. He is going to help grow this offense with Andrew Luck.
Hilton is the defending NFL Receiving yards leader. He lands in some good Colts water with this award. Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison, Roger Carr, and Raymond Berry are the only other Colts to lead the NFL in receiving yards.
Meanwhile, Hilton continues to grow. He is now envisioned as a leader on the Indianapolis Colts. 2017 could be a tell tale season for him. Will he be able to sustain his current pace or will he have a fall off? Without another fearful receiver, it is going to be hard to maintain.
The Indianapolis Colts need to try and gain a second receiver. Philip Dorsett and Donte Moncrief just do not require the attention that T.Y. Hilton does. Hilton will continue to face double teams. If they expect him to continue his dominance in the blue and white, the Colts need to find a way to move that coverage. If that happens, the Colts can once again rule the AFC South.
Editor’s Note: This article can also be seen in our upcoming NFL Preview Edition.