Indianapolis Colts Preview 2021

NFLNFL Preview 2021AFC Preview 2021AFC South Preview 2021AFCAFC SouthIndianapolis Colts

Sep 4

In developing our Indianapolis Colts preview 2021, we noted that this team made the playoffs as a wildcard in 2018 and 2020. Both times they won 11 games. Last year, the Colts posted a divisional record of 4-2. There’s a lot to be optimistic about concerning this team. After the retirement of quarterback Phillip Rivers at the end of the season, former Eagle QB Carson Wentz joined the team in a deal that saw Philadelphia receive two draft picks. But there are concerns about Wentz and his young backups.

Colts Offense

Last season in 12 games for Philly, Wentz struggled, as he tossed 16 TD passes and 15 INTs. He missed the last four games of the season. However, his absence from the field was not due to injury but to his being benched. Does Wentz possess the stuff to lead this team? The O-line, which is led by All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson, is sound and should offer solid protection. On the other hand, the receiving group is good but not outstanding. WR T.Y. Hilton (56 REC, 762 YDs, 13.6 AVG, 5 TDs) tied with wideout Zach Pascasl for the team lead in TD catches. But the Colts need more from Hilton. Meanwhile, running back Jonathan Taylor (232 ATT, 1,169 YDs, 5.0 AVG, 11 TDs) is a grinder, offering the Colts premium yardage and scoring chops.

Indianapolis Colts Preview – Defense

The Indy defense was ranked second versus the rush (90.5). Unfortunately, it was not as effective against the passing, allowing 241.6 YPG (20th) Still, our Indianapolis Colts preview 2021 finds that the Colt defense snared 15 picks (T-7) while making 40 sacks (T-12). At +10, they were second in turnover differential. DT DeForest Buckner, who came to the Colts from the 49ers in exchange for a first-round draft pick, proved to be worth the deal. Buckner, an elite player, led the team with 9.5 sacks. Additionally, NT Grover Stewart impressed with 53 total tackles. Look for Kwity Paye, a 2021 first-round draft pick, to see action immediately.

LB Darius Leonard, who led the team with 132 tackles, has been All-Pro in each of his first three seasons. This unit is good. However, there are concerns in the secondary. Corner Rock Ya-Sin has been inconsistent. On the other hand, cornerback Xavier Rhodes is reliable and capable of All-Pro status. Subsequently, at NB, Kenny Moore II, who led the team with four INTs, is one of the best in the league.

Indianapolis Colts Special Teams

The Colt special teams are top notch. PK Rodrigo Blankenship, an undrafted rookie, proved that he could get the job done. Thus, he set an Indy record for most field goals by a rookie (32-37) while making 43-of-45 extra points. Punter Rigoberto Sanchez is effective, and long snapper Luke Rhodes offers seamless performance. Finally, Isaiah Rodgers can be explosive on returns. However, he must find consistency.