For years the Colts have been known as a finesse team. That will change next year as they will be much more physical than they have been in years past.
The Colts haven’t ever really been described as a physical team. They haven’t had that identity on offense, where they have thrown the ball a lot. They certainly haven’t had that moniker on defense either, not since the years of Bob Sanders.
But that will change this year. The Colts will be more physical on both sides of the ball. The offensive line already started that last season. Running the ball was a key for them in the latter part of last year, and the offensive line was a physical presence.
Not only will their offensive line be physical, but their running backs will be too. Signing Spencer Ware as a backup signals more runs in between the tackles. Marlon Mack can run there as well, but they prefer him to get out in space to make more plays.
Their defense will be more physical as well. Signing Clayton Geathers to a one-year deal shows they want him to keep being physical and come up in the box. That’s also why they drafted Khari Willis too. He can be a more physical safety in the secondary as well.
Being more physical doesn’t necessarily equate to more wins. But in this case, it should. Their commitment to run the ball more is going to increase their physicality and their ability to win games. Not relying so much on the passing game is key for next season and beyond.