His usage could go way up on Sunday if the Colts are without T.Y. Hilton. But Campbell should be ready for the opportunity if it arises.
The Colts really only drafted one offensive player in April. That was Parris Campbell out of Ohio State as a wide receiver. He looked good in OTA’s, but was held out most of training camp because of a hamstring injury. He only played in one preseason game.
So far this season, he has been used sparingly. He did catch his first career touchdown against the Falcons, but hasn’t really gotten the ball too much yet. He only has 5 targets, and he caught all 5 passes for 37 yards and that one touchdown. He also has one rushing attempt for 7 yards.
T.Y. Hilton has a quad injury that may keep him out of Sunday’s affair with the Raiders. If that does happen, the Colts will be without their top two receivers. Campbell could step in and give the team a big lift if Hilton can’t play. It will be the rookie’s big chance.
I’m surprised at how little he has been used so far. He has top-end speed so I’m surprised they haven’t sent him on many deep routes. They have tried a few screens with him, which makes sense. He is very dangerous when he is out in space.
They should run more crossing routes for him. That way he can catch the ball at full speed and keep running. He is extremely hard to tackle in those scenarios. That’s where he was utilized most at Ohio State. He can pick up big chunks of yards that way.
We will see what they decide to do with him on Sunday. He could have his first big game as an Indianapolis Colt.