Chris Ballard says Colts aren’t quitting on Parris Campbell but should they?
The Indianapolis Colts remain committed to receiver Parris Campbell but is that the right decision?
When the Indianapolis Colts drafted Parris Campbell in the second round of the 2019 draft, it sparked some excitement about what could be.
Campbell was coming off a big year at Ohio State after catching 90 passes for 1,063 yards and 12 touchdowns, and his 4.31 40-yard dash had fans excited about the speed he would bring to the offense.
Unfortunately for Campbell and the Colts, his career has not gotten off to the start that many had hoped. Campbell has battled injury after injury and as a result, he’s only played in 15 games through his first three seasons.
Despite these struggles, Indianapolis remains committed to Campbell. In a Tuesday press conference, Colts general manager, Chris Ballard said, “I’m not quitting on Parris Campbell.”
While Ballard and Indy’s commitment to Campbell is admirable, is giving him another chance really what’s best for Indianapolis?
Does Parris Campbell deserve another chance with Colts?
Ballard does also say that Indy will add competition at receiver and that Campbell won’t necessarily be depended on as the second option but he will still be present.
Ballard also touches on the flashes that Parris Campbell has shown. In the 15 games that he’s played, Campbell has 34 receptions for 360 yards and two touchdowns.
In his time on the field, he has shown the ability to be a deep threat. The play that he got injured on this season was a 51-yard touchdown against the Houston Texans.
When Campbell returned in the final week of the season against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he was still able to get past defenders but he and Carson Wentz were just inches away from connecting on big plays multiple times.
Considering the speed that Campbell still possesses and the fact that there’s only one year remaining on his contract, the Colts are making the right decision to bring him back.
It isn’t like Campbell is doing any self-sabotaging behavior, he’s just sustained unfortunate injuries. This season could be the year where he stays healthy and finally fulfills his potential.
Additionally, Indianapolis isn’t really in the position to just get rid of receivers. The Colts should be aggressive in adding wide receivers in the draft and free agency but should also keep Campbell entering training camp.
If he is able to remain healthy, Indy has a speedy receiver that can contribute to the offense. If he isn’t able to stay healthy, the Colts can release him during camp or let him walk in next offseason’s free agency.