Colts Free Agents: How Will They Fit In
By Evan Reller
Nov 24, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) warms up against the Jacksonville Jaguars before the game at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
Andre Johnson, WR
2014 Stats: 85 receptions, 936 yards, 3 TDs
PFF Grade: +1.3 (-0.4 Pass)
DYAR: – 89 (86th) DVOA: -20.1% (81st)
Johnson is possibly the most well known player to be signed with the Colts. He’s an exceptional wide receiver who has built a Hall of Fame resume despite never playing with a good quarterback. Johnson led the league in receptions and yardage in 2008 with Matt Schaub and Sage Rosenfels throwing him the ball (yes, that Rosenfels).
Johnson will be playing the role of Reggie Wayne this season. Johnson will be 34 this season, the same age as Wayne when Andrew Luck entered the league. He also offers a slight upgrade over Wayne heading into the season. Johnson isn’t recovering from ACL surgery nor did he tear his triceps last season.
Johnson is an ideal fit for a very young receiving corps that needs a veteran presence. He is a very reliable receiver, something the Colts didn’t have last season. He won’t be asked to carry the offense and will be a primary target on third downs.
He also adds versatility in terms of the types of routes he can run for the Colts. He is a big target (6-3, 230-pounds) and can get yards after the catch, especially on short high percentage passes.
This also gives Johnson the best odds of finally winning a game in Indianapolis.