3 key preseason takeaways for the Colts ahead of finale against Eagles

1. Colts still need a big-time playmaker

Some teams have their go-to guys and some don't. The Colts currently look like they won't have a solidified, consistent playmaker heading into the start of the season. Star running back Jonathan Taylor has shown persistency in his trade demands, and still appears to be off the field with an injury.

If Taylor is set to head out, Indianapolis will have to turn their heads to veteran players such as Michael Pittman Jr. to carry a heavy load of the offense. Pittman Jr. has shown sparks of his playmaking ability, but has yet to form a true connection with any quarterback for more than a season.

Indianapolis needs a new star before the end of the 2023 season, but the rookies look poised to take advantage of this opportunity. Anthony Richardson and his receivers have been continuously improving every day. The young corps will look to establish themselves in front of a home crowd in their season opener.

Defensively, the appearance of Shaquille Leonard will massively improve the turnover ratio for the Colts. Young defensive backs will have to show their coverage skills as teams attempt to exploit an inexperienced team. The Colts are allowing an average of 20 points per game thus far in preseason, which shows hope for such a young team.

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