All 32 teams are officially in training camp, so that means the start of the NFL season is approaching. Another NFL season means that it’s time for power rankings. Experts are always trying to figure out who’s the best team in the league, who’s the worst, and where every other franchise falls.
The Indianapolis Colts, who are coming off a 4-12-1 season, certainly will be towards the bottom of many rankings. With a first-year head coach, a rookie quarterback, and the memories of the abysmal football from last season fresh in people’s mind, expectations are low for the Colts. But, how low, exactly?
Well, in a recent piece for Bleacher Report, the NFL staff did a power ranking heading into training camp. The Colts were ranked at No. 28, the fifth-worst spot.
Colts ranked 28 by Bleacher Report in power rankings
Although having Indianapolis ranked incredibly low, Bleacher Report argued that “The Colts aren't a team without talent. But they'll only go as their quarterbacks take them this year,” highlighting the teams quarterback battle between Gardner Minshew and Anthony Richardson. Until a quarterback is decided, and shows the ability to play well, expectations will remain low for Indy.
That's fair, the Colts certainly shouldn’t be ranked high. Also, while finding a starting quarterback is paramount, it’s not the only major concern for Indy. The improvement of the offensive line and development of the young secondary are also big factors in whether or not Indy will turn things around.
If the line is as bad as it was last year, it won’t matter who’s at quarterback, because they’ll frequently be under pressure and on the ground. Additionally, if Indy’s young corners aren’t ready to contribute, the defense will struggle to stop opposing teams. A solid offensive line and secondary is the real key to the Colts rising in power rankings.