TY Hilton discussed a number of topics during his media availability on Monday, including his offseason and an improving Andrew Luck. The receiver also fielded questions about his new coaching staff, and what they have brought to Indianapolis. According to Hilton, so far it’s going extremely well.
Of all the changes made thus far by the new staff, there is one small change that has done a lot to ignite a spark in Hilton and his teammates.
"“Just walking into music. Coming into the team meeting room, [the coaches] are bumping music. It’s something we aren’t used to, but its great. It gets the guys up and ready to pay attention in the meetings.” said Hilton “The coaching staff is bringing a lot of new energy, and the team is just feeding off of it”"
Hilton seemed to be excited with his new coaches throughout the whole interview (which you can watch here). This is the feeling fans were hoping to see out of the Colts, especially Hilton. With the all the talent he has, a little motivation could boost Hilton’s talent to another level. The Pro- Bowler’s game could very well make a big jump in the new offense. An offense Hilton believes he fits into.
"“The stuff he’s been putting in, I feel good about. He’s going to put the ball in my hands and let me do what I do.”"
I’m interested to see what Hilton’s role in this “quick-strike” offense will be. From what I saw out of the Eagles last season, the offense consisted of a lot of quick slants, outs and dump off passes. Hilton has proven he is capable of creating space, but for the majority of the last few seasons, Hilton has looked for the big play. Yet, Hilton’s offseason workouts suggest he is ready to change his game.
"“I slimmed down and got more lean. I’m ready, I’m in the best shape of my life. Rusty [Jones] has been doing a great job telling me what to eat and what not to eat. Now I feel good. I feel like it’s my first year.”"
For those of you who are not familiar, Rusty Jones is the new Director of Sports Performance for Indianapolis. Apparently he has been doing a great job with Hilton, helping him “leave the fast food alone” and bulk up. Hilton says he is keeping the same playing weight, but has built up his muscle mass. This change in body type hints that Hilton is preparing for a role more suitable for Reich’s offense. By bulking up and working on his speed, Hilton could be used in a way Colts fans have not seen before. In addition to working on his body, the former receiving leader put in work with two players on Reich’s former team.
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"“I’ve watched [The Philadelphia Eagles]. I know a few guys over there, Torrey [Smith] and Alshon [Jeffery]. I’ve watched them pretty close to see what they were doing.” said Hilton “I got a few sessions in with them, and got a chance to get to know them and understand the offense.”"
It is refreshing to hear a team leader talk about how excited he is for this change. There is a lot of turnover that comes with a coaching change. To see that Hilton is buying into the offense, and taking measures to learn on his own is relieving. As great as he is, there have been times where it seemed like he was acting on his own, and not listening to his coaches. The best thing Colts fans can see in camp is a motivated and exited TY Hilton. After this interview it seems like that is the mindset he will carry into the season. Hilton wants to be a key player for Indy, and that is what drives him.
"“We’re all playing for a job” said Hilton. “We all understand with this new coaching staff that we have to bring it every single day, because anything can happen.”"
Obviously the thought of the Colts cutting or trading Hilton seems improbable, but what he is saying is absolutely right. Reich was brought in to motivate and get wins out of this team. If ANY player resists the new staff, they may have to live with a diminished role, or even face being cut by Chris Ballard. Hilton is absolutely right when he says everyone is playing for a job. Once again, I have that sense of relief when I hear him say that.
It seems like the Colts and the new coaching staff are doing a great job in motivating and pumping up their players. If the leaders of the Colts are energized and excited by this new staff, that attitude should spread to the rest of the team. With all the young talent on this roster, veteran leadership holds extra importance this offseason.
Hilton has shown his ability to lead on the field with his play. Now it may be time for him to take on that role in the locker room. Regardless, Luck’s favorite target seems to be inspired and motivated by the new coaching change. This should give Colts fans a good feeling heading into the 2018 season.