Is a ‘Bulked Up’ Phillip Dorsett Destined for a Breakout Season?

While Indianapolis Colts fans are no doubt excited about the recent draft class, there’s one rookie from last year’s class, Phillip Dorsett, who could be destined for a breakout season.

The 2015 first round pick out of Miami (Fla.) saw his debut season derailed by a fractured ankle. However, he still managed 18 receptions for 225 receiving yards and a touchdown reception in 11 games otherwise.

However, the 5’10”, once 185 pound wide receiver has apparently “bulked up” this offseason in anticipation for the season:

If he can maintain his 4.30 forty time speed with added strength, Dorsett could have the makings of a future star at wideout. Even before the weight gain, the Colts have thought so.

Assuming it doesn’t negatively impact his speed, the improved strength should allow Dorsett to effectively fight off jams near the line of scrimmage, help his body control, and also to better withstand hits from opposing secondaries.

There’s no doubt that the selection of a wide receiver was highly questionable in the 1st round last year with so many other needs on the team–particularly on both the offensive and defensive line.

However, with the departure of veteran wide receiver Andre Johnson and tight end Coby Fleener, the pick is now looking much more prudent in hindsight. Dorsett figures to get a number of additional looks by being featured in a more prominent role within the offense.

Specifically, Dorsett should be a staple in 3-wide receiver sets and should therefore be on the field frequently this upcoming season.

While I’m a bit biased, I’m not the only one who thinks that Dorsett could be poised for a big season, as NFL.com’s Conor Orr named the blazing fast wideout as one of his Top 5 rookies from 2015 that “we shouldn’t forget about“:

"3. Phillip Dorsett, wide receiver, Indianapolis Colts (Round 1, pick  No. 29): Dorsett could be an explosive wide receiver, but like the Rams discovered with Tavon Austin, it is difficult to find that out without getting creative and giving him the ball. The Colts’ offense was muddled at best last year, with an injured Andrew Luck and a confused scheme that was attempting to placate several target-hungry wide receivers. This year should be different. Dorsett averaged a little more than three targets per game a year ago. With the subtraction of tight end Coby Fleener and wide receiver Andre Johnson, there should be more opportunities for Dorsett to move up in the progression and catch some passes."

Dorsett has the rare speed to blow the top off of opposing secondaries and can be a dynamic playmaker for the Colts offense–especially when paired with the likes of T.Y. Hilton and Donte Moncrief.

He really wasn’t able to hit the ground running last season because of a significant ankle injury, as well as injuries to starting quarterback Andrew Luck. Not to mention, he was buried lower on the depth chart than he should be this upcoming season.

Either way, after a somewhat quiet and even to a degree, disappointing rookie season, Dorsett has the speed and skill-set to really have a breakout season for the Colts this year and certainly is a young player to watch.