The Indianapolis Colts’ aerial attack should be expected to be more prolific next season, which speaks volumes considering they finished 11th in the league in passing yards per game (253.3) last campaign with the physically-limited Philip Rivers under center.
What figures to play a big role in that? Well, the production of the receiving corps will be huge and fans will be hoping the unit is more durable than it was last year. If it felt like the Colts’ receiving arsenal was never fully healthy, well, that’s because it wasn’t.
While the health of TY Hilton will obviously be paramount, we’d argue that keeping Parris Campbell upright for a full season will be equally imperative.
The 2019 second-round pick has seen both of his first two seasons cut short due to injury, and it would appear he’s being proactive in trying to change his awful luck. In a move we’re in total agreement with, Campbell has decided to drop his seemingly cursed No. 15 jersey.
That’s right, Colts fans. The third-year pro will be rocking No. 1 from this point forward. What’s even better? Campbell’s comments about the switch indicate a big year is ahead.
"Toughest battles, toughest soldiers."#Colts WR Parris Campbell has changed his jersey number to 1.
— Indy SportsOne (@IndySportsOne) May 6, 2021
📸: via pcampbell21/IG pic.twitter.com/XEQkhehzuD
Colts WR Parris Campbell changing his number is definitely the right call.
We’re not overly superstitious, but fans in Indy would be hard-pressed not to get on board with Campbell’s decision. Given all the former Ohio State star has dealt with on the injury front since entering the league, starting fresh with a new number just makes sense.
For context, Campbell was limited to just two games last year after he underwent surgery to repair MCL and PCL injuries he suffered in Week 2. While there was speculation he could return for the Colts’ playoff push down the stretch, he was ultimately never activated.
As a rookie, Campbell went under the knife for a fractured foot, a sports hernia and a fractured hand, meaning he’s totaled four surgeries in his first two seasons. That came after a hamstring strain cost him most of training camp, so he was well behind to begin his NFL career.
Taking all of that into account, how could you possibly not endorse Campbell’s decision to take advantage of the NFL’s new loosened jersey protocols? The rule change allows running backs, tight ends, fullbacks and receivers to wear numbers 1 through 49 and 80 through 89.
Parris Campbell will now wear No. 1 for #Colts 👀 pic.twitter.com/T8UdsCTBFq
— Locked On Colts Podcast (@LockedOnColts) May 6, 2021
It’s likely Campbell couldn’t rock the No. 21 he wore at Ohio State because that number belongs to Nyheim Hines. And No. 2 belongs to Carson Wentz. Next up? No. 1. And it looks damn good.
Let’s hope this fresh start for Campbell signifies a breakout year. Nobody on the roster deserves a clean bill of health more than him.
Colts: Should fans temper their expectations for Parris Campbell’s return?
Should Indianapolis Colts fans be getting excited for the return of wide receiver Parris Campbell after he played just two games last season?