Colts Camp: Pagano Talks About Opening Camp

The Indianapolis Colts opened training camp at Anderson University today. Coach Chuck Pagano held his first press conference of camp and covered everything from the season expectations to the health of a few key players.

Here are some of the highlights from his presser:

On the expectations of the season (read: Super Bowl-or-bust):

"“Lot of excitement surrounding this 2015 team, but we got a lot of work to do and a short amount of time to do it in,” Pagano said. “We are in a great spot and I wouldn’t want to be in any other spot. The other end of the conversation, no thank you. This is where you want to be. This is what we’ve strived to build from day one. The blinders are on and the earmuffs are on from here on out.”"

The Colts won’t be in full pads for the first couple of days. Pagano discussed how the team will evaluate during this opening period:

"“We’re trying to evaluate and see where we are,” Pagano said. “What kind of shape they are in. Everybody passed the conditioning test. We’re trying to become the identity we talked about all offseason and build a smart tough football team. A pressure proof team.”"

While the defense might not be able to go full tilt, Pagano insisted they’d still be out on the field hitting something:

"We’ve got bags and sleds, we still have helmets on. You can still try to tear up some equipment as you work towards pads."

Colts RB Vick Ballard has been cleared to return to practice, it’s been nearly two years since he stepped on a football field. Pagano outlined the plan for his return:

"“We gotta be very, very smart,” Pagano said. “He’s been cleared, and obviously he’s worked his tail off. He’s been on one heck of a journey trying to get back. To his credit, it takes perserverance, resolve and a ton of grit to get that done. We’ll be very, very smart with how we introduce him back to football and we’ll ramp that up as he progresses.”"

Pagano said he’s pulling hard for Ballard’s return and has a soft spot for him:

"“Love that kid. Think about what he did for this football team in 2012. He’s a warrior. He’s a great player. He’s a great teammate. That’s a foxhole buddy. You want to take him downtown with you because you know he’s going to have your back.”"

Pagano also mentioned the corkscrew touchdown against the Titans in overtime back in 2012. He said that play was the epitome of what being a “Colt” means.

The Colts are going to have a deep running back group and Pagano expects a deep competition and is “excited as hell” to see it.

Pagano briefly discussed the recovery progress of Robert Mathis as well:

"“We’ve got to be very, very smart with Robert. He knows that. We are all on the same page. The lines of communication are open and we just have to stick to the process and be patient.”"

Pagano officially listed him as day-to-day as he opens camp on the PUP list.

Andrew Luck spent time in Palo Alto, Calif. with some of his receivers just a few weeks ago. He also got reps in with Andre Johnson during the time away from the Colts facilities. This might have pleased Pagano more than anything else:

"“It’s awesome,” Pagano said. “Your building chemistry, and not only chemistry as far as throwing and catching but building a relationship and the communication and trust. Hats off to all those guys for sacrificing and giving up whatever vacation they did to do those things to get together. Its outstanding.”"

Pagano was asked about the leadership of Frank Gore and Johnson. Both are quite leaders, and let their play on the field talk, but they know when to be vocal:

"“They’re not going to say much, their actions speak louder than their words,” Pagano said. “They are championship caliber football players and have played winning football for a long, long time. They’re not afraid to lead when they have to lead, and not only on the football field. If they have to get in the locker room and grab a young guy and say we need you to do this, and this. They had someone do that to them a long time ago. They hold each other to high expectations.”"

The Colts have struggled to put together a consistent offensive line the past three years. Pagano is hoping that changes in 2015:

"“We got a great group, I love their mindset,” Pagano said. “Starting this afternoon we will start developing this group. Our goal is to find those five starters asap so that we can start having that continuity and communication.”"

The changes along the offensive line include releasing right tackle Gosder Cherilus recently. A tough decision, but one Pagano thinks will ultimately help the team:

"“Really, every decisions is based on what’s best for the team and what helps us win,” Pagano said. “Gos was instrumental in the last two years in all the success we had. He played a vital role, he’s a warrior and a good football player. I can’t thank him enough for what he did for this team. But we did what gave us the best chance to win.”"

Second-year player Jack Mewhort will move from left guard to right tackle and will hopefully bring some continuity to the position.

"“Good thing about Jack is that he’s played them all,” Pagano said. “He’s a really bright guy, selfless guy who will do whatever we ask of him and do whatever we need to win. I don’t think there is any obstacle other than perfecting his craft day-in and day-out.”"

To watch the full press conference, click here.