The Indianapolis Colts have watched most teams in the division get significantly better this offseason. Given their somewhat quiet market and lack of a first-round pick, that might raise some concerns.
Nevertheless, Shane Steichen's team has also gotten better in the past couple of months. They overhauled the defense and addressed some positions of need with newcomers and promising rookies.
The Colts are a bit of a question mark right now, especially after their late-season collapse. That said, three position battles could bring out the best in spots that weren't as solid last season. Here, we'll dig deep into the three battles to keep an eye on during training camp.
3 Position battles that will define the Indianapolis Colts' training camp
Kicker: Two solid choices and no front-runner
Blake Grupe emerged when Spencer Shrader was out with an injury, leaving special teams coordinator Brian Mason with a great problem to have. Shrader had never been an issue, but Grupe was slightly more efficient in minicamp, so this looks like a bit of a coin toss.
Grupe is the more experienced, and he hasn't missed a single kick for the team since Shrader's ACL injury. He remained perfect in five attempts during minicamp, whereas Shrader missed two of his five kicks. Grupe might hold a small edge right now, but anything can happen when it actually counts.
WR3: Who'll replace Michael Pittman Jr?
The Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. to make room for Alec Pierce's huge extension. Now, they're left with two starting-caliber wide receivers and several underwhelming options to take the field in three wide receiver sets.
Special teams ace Ashton Dulin drew positive reviews in the spring, and they also brought in seventh-round pick Deion Burks, a playmaking speedster with intriguing potential. There's also Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, though he's been more of a special teams contributor for most of his career.
Defensive End: Laiatu Latu's sidekick
The Colts have a rising star in Laiatu Latu, but he's dealt with the same issue that has held back Aidan Hutchinson in Detroit. He's on an island on every pass-rushing snap, and the Colts must pair him with someone who can also put pressure at the line of scrimmage to get to the quarterback.
Arden Key looks like the strongest candidate to take Jaylahn Tuimoloau's spot, though the Colts will give their homegrown player every chance he needs to win the starting job. The Colts' pass rush left plenty to be desired in the first year of the Lou Anarumo era, and getting this right may define this team's entire season.
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