The Indianapolis Colts will need to aggressively address the wide receiver position this offseason.
The majority of the discourse surrounding the Indianapolis Colts has been about the quarterback position. While that is an important spot for Indy, the other side of the passing game may be just as important.
That’s the wide receivers, a position group that struggled last season for Indianapolis. Michael Pittman Jr. took a big step in his second year, but every other receiver was either hampered by injury or just underperformed.
This was noticed around the league as the Colts receiving group was recently grouped with the worst in the league. In an article by Kevin Patra on NFL.com assessing all 32 teams’ receiver situations, Indy was grouped with the teams that “need immediate help.”
Patra highlighted the significant drop-off from Pittman’s 1,082 yards to Zach Pascal’s 384. Patra also pointed out how TY Hilton and Parris Campbell struggled with injury.
The good thing for Indianapolis is there will be a ton of talented wide receivers available in the draft and free agency.
"You want as many playmakers as you can get." pic.twitter.com/UnBElXdhm7
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) March 1, 2022
Colts must immediately address wide receiver
General manager, Chris Ballard, and head coach, Frank Reich, both addressed the need for more weapons in individual press conferences on Tuesday.
Ballard emphasized that a team always wants as many weapons as possible, but he also believes if a healthy TY Hilton returns he’d be able to offer more than he did in 2021.
Ballard also committed to Parris Campbell, saying that while the team may not depend on Campbell to be the No. 2 or 3 receiver, Indy isn’t going to give up on him. Next season will be the final year of Campbell’s rookie contract and he has only been able to play 15 games for the Colts.
Reich also expressed belief in the younger guys currently on the roster saying that he hopes one of them will be able to surprise everyone and become a big contributor.
While Reich’s and Ballard’s belief in receivers on the roster is admirable, it’s time for Indy to hit the receiver market big. Between the draft, free agency, and receivers that may be traded, there’s no reason the Colts shouldn’t be able to land a quality receiver to pair with Pittman.
If Indianapolis keeps playing it small and waiting on guys to develop or stay healthy, it will continue to limit itself. To take this offense and team to the next level, the Colts have to land another talented receiver.
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