Colts: 3 futures signings that might be breakout candidates in 2021
By Mike Luciano
The Indianapolis Colts have largely sat free agency out on the sidelines after acquiring Carson Wentz this offseason. Need proof? Former Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Isaac Rochell has been the newest addition to a team that started the offseason with plenty of cap space.
Ballard, continuing with his tradition of making smaller, piecemeal additions, signed a boatload of players, most of whom are either undrafted players that didn’t stick in their first landing spot or veterans that were just released, to futures contracts.
This crop is not just an amalgamation of random names. Guys like wide receiver JJ Nelson and running back Paul Perkins have several years of pro experience under their belts. However, it’s the younger players Indy signed who really stand out.
If a few of them end up impressing Frank Reich in Colts camp, do not be surprised at all if they make the final roster after the preseason, just like tight end Mo Alie-Cox did in 2018.
These 3 brand new Indianapolis Colts could break out in 2021.
3. TE Jordan Thomas
Thomas, who was picked in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans despite minimal production at Mississippi State, has fallen from a potential steal of the draft to someone who can hardly manage to stay on a pro roster.
Thomas started 10 games as a rookie, recording 20 catches, 215 yards receiving, and four touchdowns. In the two seasons, since, which has been split between the Texans, Arizona Cardinals, and New England Patriots, he’s totaled just two catches. Will he be able to find himself again in Indianapolis?
How could Jordan Thomas help the Colts?
Thomas is a tight end in name alone, as he tips the scales at a whopping 277 pounds. Despite his limited production, it doesn’t take Bill Walsh to see how someone that big with that amount of athletic ability can be a matchup nightmare in the right offensive coordinator’s hands.
He runs like he’s might lighter than he is, all the while being able to body defensive backs and linebackers in coverage. Even if he’s just used as a third tight end for his size, Thomas might be able to carve out a nice little role for himself next season.