Indianapolis Colts 53-man roster feels like one that can compete in the AFC South
After an offseason of putting pieces into place, the Indianapolis Colts finalized their 53-man roster this week. There were a few surprises this time around but no bombshells.
Among the bigger surprises was the decision to cut three draft picks from the 2024 NFL Draft, with rookies Jaylin Simpson, Micah Abraham and Jonah Laulu all getting released. They are subject to waivers and hopefully they can return as part of the practice squad in order to continue developing. Either Chris Ballard missed on some talent evaluations, or he has some serious faith in this depth and ability of the players in the locker room.
This will be a storyline to watch this season, as is the fact that the Colts seem to have put together a roster that is ready to challenge Houston for the division crown.
Indianapolis Colts 53-man roster feels like one that can compete in the AFC South
Quarterback (3)
- Starter: Anthony Richardson
- Reserves: Joe Flacco, Sam Ehlinger
Obviously, no surprises here as Richardson will return from injury to be the starting quarterback.
Indy will have a reliable backup, yet again, in Joe Flacco. The saga of whether to keep three quarterbacks or not this season was decided by the NFLPA, as explained by NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Important note as teams construct their initial 53-man rosters:
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 26, 2024
NFL teams were informed that the NFLPA vetoed the revised Emergency 3rd Quarterback rule that would have allowed teams to elevate a bona fide QB from the practice squad an unlimited number of times.
So, the rule…
With the injury history of Richardson, the franchise had to keep Ehlinger on the roster.
Running Back (3)
- Starter: Jonathan Taylor
- Reserves: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson
The Colts were expected to keep Evan Hull along with the three backs who ended up making the squad. While Hull is a surprise cut in my opinion, it shows that Trey Sermon is healthier than we currently believe.
Sermon was spotted at the last practice working on the sidelines and preparing for Week 1. Evan Hull is subject to waivers and if he makes it through waivers then expect the Colts to bring him back and continue his development after missing his rookie season with a knee injury.