4 Colts players who are already turning heads at OTAs
2. Tackle Blake Freeland has impressed at Colts OTAs
Starting right tackle Braden Smith also missed the first week of OTAs as he dealt with an injury. However, this gave Indy’s fourth-round pick Blake Freeland a chance to run with the starters. Apparently, Freeland has been impressive and Indianapolis believes he may be ready to contribute as a rookie.
Steichen told the media that he likes where Freeland is at right now. With right guard being the biggest opening on Indy’s offensive line, there’s a chance that Braden Smith can bump in to guard and Freeland can take over at tackle if he’s ready to go.
1. Corner Darius Rush has impressed at Colts OTAs
Indianapolis selected three cornerbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft, and Darius Rush is the one making the big plays so far. When the media was in attendance, Rush jumped a route and intercepted a Sam Ehlinger pass for a pick six. With the cornerback spot opposite of Isaiah Rodgers Sr. wide open, plays like that can go a long way for Rush.
Julius Brents, who was the first corner selected for the Colts, hasn’t been able to take the field yet as he’s recovering from an injury. As the offseason progresses, Rush, Brents, Jaylon Jones, and Dallis Flowers will all compete for the CB2 spot.