CB Xavier Rhodes’ latest quote proves he’s a perfect fit with the Colts.
The Indianapolis Colts’ signing of Xavier Rhodes was met with mixed reviews among the fan base, and understandably so, as his production plummeted in 2019 in his final of seven seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.
While there’s no defending Rhodes’ performance last year, virtually all analysts came to the understanding that a change of scenery would work wonders in terms of launching him back into the conversation as one of the NFL’s elite cornerbacks.
Well, it’s already become clear in the early stages of training camp that the three-time Pro Bowler is going to thrive in the Colts’ scheme, which features a ton of zone coverage. Fans in Indianapolis are going to love Rhodes’ latest comments to reporters.
Why this #Colts newcomer is excited for his new assignment: 'Being able to play looking at the quarterback, rather than looking at the man.' https://t.co/6L5Epm05UC
— IndyStarSports (@IndyStarSports) August 11, 2020
“It’s so much easier,” Rhodes told the Indianapolis Star. “I’ll tell you that. . . . This one is more zone, eyes to the quarterback. That’s going to be the main difference for me, is being able to play looking at the quarterback, rather than looking at the man.”
We would normally advise players to refrain from using the term “easy” when speaking about NFL schemes and packages, but it’s quite clear that Rhodes is poised for a bounce back campaign with Indianapolis if he’s this comfortable already.
Any Colts fans who are still on the fence about the Rhodes addition are justified, but they can take solace in the fact that his performance can only improve after his shocker last season with the Vikings.
Not only did opposing quarterbacks complete 81.5% of their passes (66-of-81) when targeting the former first-round pick, but he allowed a 123.8 passer rating and conceded a whopping 9.8 yards per target.
Xavier Rhodes finds Colts zone defensive scheme "so much easier" https://t.co/FLa0Off3AG
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) August 11, 2020
The 30-year-old cornerback will obviously have to prove it with his play on the field, but this quote suggests that he’s going to remind fans in Indy why he used to be considered one of the best players at his position.
We’re not saying the “Rhodes Closed” merchandise will make a comeback, but a big year is certainly in the cards for the Florida State product as the Colts’ zone-oriented coverage figures to get the best out of him.