As we continue to preview the 2020 NFL season, it’s time to check in on the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts are a fascinating team because we really don’t know what we’re getting. Which Philip Rivers are we getting? Can Jonathan Taylor and the offensive line carry them if things go south? Is there any star power on this defense Darius Leonard? Let’s check out the biggest storylines for the Colts in 2020.
3 Position Battles To Watch:
Quarterback: Philip Rivers, Jacoby Brissett, Jacob Eason
It sounds pretty likely that Philip Rivers is going to the nod in Week 1. However, I’m not sure Rivers totally has it. After a 23-20 TD to INT ratio, Rivers is far from a lock to be the Colts savior. Jacoby Brissett is still on the roster and Jacob Eason is being groomed as a potential starter.
Tight End: Jack Doyle, Trey Burton, Mo Alie-Cox
Jack Doyle is a nice and serviceable tight end. However, Indy brought Trey Burton in for a reason. They don’t want Doyle to be the only show in town. Burton is still in his prime and should be recovered from an injury plagued 2019. Also, keep your eye on Mo Alie-Cox. It’s a make or break season for him.
Free Safety: Malik Hooker, Julian Blackmon
In one of the oddest moves of the NFL offseason, the Colts declined the 5th year option for Malik Hooker. Why? Who the hell knows. Hooker has 7 interceptions in 33 career games after selecting him in the first round. Chris Ballard is overrated….
Anyway, Julian Blackmon was drafted in the third round to take his job. Will it happen this year?
Ready To Breakout: Kemoko Turay
Most of you probably don’t even know who Kemoko Turay is. The former Rutgers standout (there’s not many) was on the verge of popping. Then he hit the IR quickly suffering a neck injury. However, heading into year number three, this could be the year where Turay turns into a monster. Last year we started to see it. In 81 snaps, Turay notched 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble, five quarterback hits and eight hurries. Keep an eye on the continued development.
Rookie To Watch: Jonathan Taylor
I’m fascinated to see Jonathan Taylor. I was not super high on Taylor in the draft process. I thought he was clearly a tier below the top 4 guys. With a great offensive line in place, there’s no excuse. Fix the fumbling issues and do damage. Will the Colts use him at all in the passing game?
Fantasy Sleeper: Parris Campbell
Parris Campbell feels like he’s laying in the weeds. TY Hilton is the clear number one target. Michael Pittman JR was drafted in the second round this year. Then there’s 2019 2nd round pick Parris Campbell who seems all but forgotten about. I still don’t really even know what he is but there’s a special athlete here. Figure it out, Colts.
