Heading into the 2024 season, the Indianapolis Colts must try to fix this perceived weaknesses on the team.
The Indianapolis Colts are one of the most intriguing teams this year. With a roster filled with talent, they are capable of making a significant impact this season if their key players stay healthy. When you examine their depth chart, it’s clear that the Colts have plenty of big names and promising players. However, despite the many things to like about this team, there are also some areas of concern.
The primary question is whether their strengths can outweigh their weaknesses this season. Let’s take a closer look at the Colts’ biggest weakness heading into the season: their secondary.
The Secondary: A Cause for Concern
The secondary is undoubtedly the Colts’ biggest weakness, and it’s surprising that this issue wasn’t addressed during the offseason. General manager Chris Ballard appears to have faith in this group, but will that be enough?
Heading into the season, the secondary lineup includes Kenny Moore II, JuJu Brents, Julian Blackmon, Nick Cross, Jaylon Jones, Dallis Flowers, and Rodney Thomas Jr. When you look at this list, you might only recognize one name: Kenny Moore II.
This isn’t to say the others aren’t talented. However, most of them have yet to prove themselves, mainly due to health issues and lack of experience.
Kenny Moore II: The Lone Bright Spot
Moore is the standout player in this group, and a key player on the Colts. Last season prior to Week 12, Moore allowed the lowest passer rating of any slot cornerback at 68.4. Moore is fully capable of being the leader of the Colts secondary this season, and they will undoubtedly need his veteran presence.
Moore is the only seasoned player in this group, however. And because of that, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to add another experienced piece to the puzzle. The Colts’ social media is buzzing with fans calling for the team to sign available free agents like Justin Simmons and Stephon Gilmore. While these players may be getting older, they still have plenty to offer and could significantly bolster the secondary.
The Need for Veteran Presence
Being a fan of Indianapolis often means enduring the Colts reluctance to make many offseason moves other than re-signings. That can be frustrating when there’s a glaring weakness on the team – like the secondary.
Adding a veteran could provide much-needed stability and mentorship for the young players. Despite the potential in this group, they need to stay healthy and develop quickly. Veterans like Simmons and Gilmore could be instant upgrades and help guide the younger players through the season. The only positive aspect of this secondary is their youth, which means they have plenty of room to grow. However, staying healthy is crucial for their development and overall team success.
Trust in Ballard
Ballard often receives criticism for not being as active in free agency as other GMs. However, his strategy has typically paid off. Despite doubts about his approach in the past, he has usually been right. This offseason was no exception.
The young secondary group, although unproven, has the potential to surprise everyone if they stay healthy and perform well. Ballard’s belief in these players might just pay off. The development of this secondary is crucial for the team’s success and their potential for a deep playoff run.
High Stakes for a Promising Season
The Colts have a promising season ahead, filled with talent and potential. The secondary, while a significant concern, also presents an opportunity for growth. If the young players can stay healthy and develop quickly, the Colts can compete with any team. The secondary’s performance will be a determining factor in the team’s success this season.
Keep an eye on this Indianapolis team as they navigate the season, hoping their positives outweigh their weaknesses. If certain things fall their way and they manage to stay healthy, the Colts will be a formidable competitor.
Harry Prskalo
Writer for The League Winners. Just a guy that loves Fantasy Football and will help you win your championship.