There are many contending teams this upcoming season that fans do not pay enough attention to. One of these teams is the Indianapolis Colts. Despite losing their starting quarterback to a season-ending injury after only playing four games and having the team’s All-Pro running back miss seven games due to injuries, the Colts managed to almost make the playoffs with a 9-8 record. Heading into the 2023 season, fans have a lot of things to be excited about.
One of these things being that the team’s starting quarterback is fully healthy and is ready to play. Anthony Richardson was drafted by the Colts in the first round of the 2023 draft, fourth overall. Despite only playing four games, the 21-year-old rookie played well in his starts. His rushing and passing abilities were very similar to former Panthers quarterback, Cam Newton. This play helped Richardson gain popularity and fan share. With Anthony Richardson heading into 2023 healthy and being the sole starter, it is safe to say that Richardson can only produce at a higher level in year two.
Another high hope for this team is their running back. Johnathan Taylor is heading into is fourth year in the league. While having his ups and downs with injuries, his play is in no way the problem. When healthy, Taylor is a top running back in the league. Despite battling with injuries this past season, the future is hopeful for Taylor and the team. Especially considering that Taylor is surrounded by one of the best offensive lines in the league.
But the best thing about this team is their extremely underrated defense. Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed are arguably the best inside linebacker duo in the league. Deforest Buckner and Grover Stewert are a great interior defensive duo and gives this defense veteran knowledge. The Colts also have a very promising and youthful secondary, with undervalued players such as Kenny Moore, Julian Blackmon, and Julius Brents. The Colts’ 2024 defense will be without Samson Ebukam, who led the team in sacks last season, which is the only downside. But overall, this defensive system is loaded with talent and promise.
It is just so hard to see a team with such potential and talent to be treated like nothing. With a strong running game, a promising sophomore quarterback, and a highly skilled defensive unit, this team has everything it needs to succeed. Anthony Richardson is the future of the Colts and possibly the whole dual-threat quarterback position. Especially with how the Colts are building around him.