Colts 53-man roster projection after Preseason Week 1
Wide Receiver (6)
Roster Locks: Micheal Pittman Jr, Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, Adonai Mitchell, Ashton Dulin, Anthony Gould
Practice Squad: DJ Montgomery, Ethan Fernea
Roster Cuts: Derek Slywka, Juwann Winfree, Tyrie Cleveland, Laquon Treadwell
We saw a minimal amount from the core of receivers this week as they followed suit with only two series. It was expected, and I do not see much change in the prediction from the last roster update. This group has been going along as expected all offseason. Even with the injury to Josh Downs, I do not foresee them bringing in a replacement. Remember, last season the team kept only 4 receivers on the roster at times.
It was surprising to not see a larger role for rookie Anthony Gould in the passing game as he did not have a single target, but he was a factor in the return game. DJ Montgomery was the leading receiver this week with two receptions for 45 yards, including 39 of those on one play. I don’t think he makes the roster, but look for him to continue his development on the practice squad.
Tight End (4)
Roster Locks: Jelani Woods, Kylen Granson, Will Mallory, Drew Ogletree
Practice Squad: Jordan Murray
Roster Cuts: Eric Tomlinson, Mo Alie-Cox
What a jumbled-up room this has become. It appears that there are 5 capable players going for 4 roster spots. I just cannot see how you justify having 5 roster spots on this team from here. It appears the only lock, now, is Kylen Granson. After that it looks like the order is Mo Alie-Cox, Drew Ogletree, Will Mallory and then Jelani Woods.
No one can justify any decisions right now, especially from Shane Steichen, as he keeps everything close to the vest. As mentioned last week about eating crow on Mo Alie-Cox, I am going to stand by my previous choice that he is still the odd man out in this group.
However, I feel this franchise could look to cut Jelani Woods if he cannot come back from his injuries. This team is based on youth and development right now and Mo Alie-Cox does not fit that plan. The other four would be grabbed quickly on waivers or free agency. So, the decision on the direction of the room will need to be decided soon.