5 Colts takeaways after the first game of the season

This is the Colts' best receiving corps in years

In recent years, the Indianapolis wide receiver room has been shallow and unreliable. Opposing defenses have not had to truly fear the Colts’ pass-catchers since the days of peak T.Y. Hilton and Reggie Wayne. The 2024 unit has the potential to be a game-changer.

Michael Pittman Jr. had a quiet game against Houston, but we know the 15th-highest-paid receiver in the league is capable of much more. On Sunday, two lesser-known wideouts -- Alec Pierce and Ashton Dulin -- flashed enormous big-play potential, combining for 179 yards and a pair of touchdowns from just 4 catches.

Add an exciting rookie in Adonai Mitchell and 2023 third-rounder Josh Downs (who missed the Houston game with an ankle injury), and the Colts suddenly have a receiving group with depth, versatility, and explosive athleticism.

The Colts will set another Indy-era sack record in 2024

Last season, the Colts recorded a franchise-high sack total since moving to Indianapolis in 1984. Their 51 sacks were the 5th-best mark in the league and a huge testament to the progress of defensive coordinator Gus Bradley’s pass rush. It would be natural to expect some regression this year, especially after 2023 sack leader Samson Ebukam was placed on injured reserve.

However, Indianapolis kicked off its season with a four-sack performance against Houston. DeForest Buckner, Kwity Paye, Tyquan Lewis, and Dayo Odeyingbo led the Colts' front 7, which also added 10 QB hits, and made sure reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud was never too comfortable.

Given the vulnerability of this defense, it's important the Indianapolis pass rush continues its momentum. There is a long way to go but, if the Colts keep this up, they will be on pace to set a brand-new record.