Indianapolis Colts: 3 battles we’re excited to watch at OTAs
By Jerry Trotta
1. Julie’n Davenport vs Sam Tevi
The Colts signed free agent Eric Fisher to a one-year, $9.4 million deal to be their starting left tackle. However, an Achilles injury suffered in the playoffs back in January means he likely won’t reenter the fold until the second month of the season at the earliest.
That means Julie’n Davenport and Sam Tevi will slug it out for the temporary starting gig during OTAs and training camp. Though Tevi is said to have the upper hand on Davenport given he started 43 games for the Chargers over the last three seasons, which included playing 83% of the offensive snaps, the decision will hopefully be based entirely on merit.
Ever since Chris Ballard took over the GM reins, Indy has prioritized athleticism along their offensive line, and neither Tevi nor Davenport are blessed in that department. On the flip side, Davenport (6-foot-7, 325 pounds) has the size and length advantage on Tevi (6-foot-5, 315 pounds), so there’s really no telling who will come out on top here.
The left tackle battle will be something to watch at Colts OTAs.
That’s precisely what compelled us to give the LT battle the top spot on this list: nobody knows who will be the starter come Week 1. The smart money, however, is on Tevi, as Indy will likely emphasize experience at the position considering Carson Wentz’s blindside will need to be protected if he wants to rediscover his confidence under center.
Either way, this battle is definitely something Colts fans should keep an eye on at OTAs.
