Colts: Frank Reich excited for Parris Campbell in year two
In his presser, Frank Reich said he’s excited for Parris Campbell in year two with the Indianapolis Colts.
Yesterday, Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich had a conference call with reporters. He talked about everything from “The Match” to how zoom calls are going with the team, and addressed how communication is going with the rookies.
During the conference call, Reich was asked if the addition of Michael Pittman Jr. would give second year wide receiver Parris Campbell more opportunities in the slot. Reich gave a lot of info on where he thinks Campbell is at and what he sees the receiver room looking like.
"“Parris is determined”…”I think he’s got deceptive power and i really think he’s got the footwork where he can play inside or out.”"
"“We’ll move everybody around. If you play one position at wide receiver you play all three. Get him on the field more so he can develop as a route runner.”"
These quotes are certainly telling. Reich obviously believes in Campbell’s ability to develop. Coming out of college, Campbell was praised by scouts and analysts because of his speed, and believed a team that could maximize his YAC ability would be the best fit. Campbell’s biggest knock was his ability to create quick separation as a route runner. He didn’t get much playing time in 2019 mostly due to injuries, and Reich did talk about hopefully getting him on the field much more in 2020.
Reich sees things in Campbell that point to development as the page turns to his sophomore season. Praising Campbell’s footwork and talking about playing inside and outside is a good sign, even though it seems most likely Campbell will get most of his reps in the slot, especially with Pittman Jr’s profile. The second quote is intriguing, and it’s entirely possible that all three guys get slot reps in 2020.
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Campbell probably feels a little more pressure with two rookies joining the wide receiver room, but he will get the opportunity in Reich’s offense to perform. He just has to grab it.