Colts: Does Marcus Brady promotion hint at Jacob Eason’s future under center?

The Colts promoting Marcus Brady to OC could signal a vote of confidence in quarterback Jacob Eason.

It’s been rough sledding for the Indianapolis Colts over the last few weeks. Not only did they lose a heartbreaker in the first round of the playoffs, but they also watched the likes of Anthony Castonzo and Philip Rivers announce their intentions to retire.

To add insult to injury, offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni was hired as the Eagles’ new head coach, and there could be more coaching staff departures in the days and weeks to come, as a handful of other assistants have accepted interviews with other organizations.

Speaking of Sirianni heading to Philly, the Colts acted promptly and promoted Marcus Brady, formerly the team’s quarterbacks coach, to offensive coordinator. This move was expected as soon as it was learned that Sirianni was being seriously considered for the Eagles’ gig, and that should instill confidence in fans who are feeling wary amid all this coaching turmoil.

Brady has done a tremendous job in the quarterback room since coming to Indy three years ago, and it’s worth speculating if his new job could signal a vote of confidence in Jacob Eason. After all, he spent more time with the 2020 fourth-rounder than anybody else on the coaching staff.

You know how it was reported throughout the season that Eason would often stay after practice to refine his mechanics and footwork since he didn’t get many reps as third-stringer? It was Brady who stayed with him and ran those sessions. If that doesn’t prove he thinks highly of the young quarterback and is a firm believer in his potential, then nothing does.

Eason is currently the only gunslinger under contract for the 2021 season, and there’s been growing speculation that he could potentially have a chance to win the starting job depending on who the Colts bring in this offseason.

Due to the pandemic, the 23-year-old wasn’t afforded a full offseason to showcase what he brings to the table…other than his cannon of a right arm, of course. When you consider that both mini camp and the preseason were canceled and that teams weren’t allowed to report to training camp until late July, it makes perfect sense why fans didn’t hear much from him throughout the year.

Nobody’s saying that Brady assuming offensive coordinator duties means that Eason will sit atop the quarterback depth chart come Week 1 of next season. However, their relationship indicates that he’s a virtual lock to win the backup job, and that means fans will hear a lot more from him than they did during his dormant rookie campaign.

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