With OTAs beginning for the Indianapolis Colts on May 26, let’s highlight three players on the offensive side of the football to keep our eyes on in the coming weeks.
In this third phase of offseason programs, no contact can take place, but teams can do competitive team periods. OTAs are also voluntary for the players.
Of course, Anthony Richardson’s performance will garner a lot of attention. I recently discussed that potential backup quarterback competition with Riley Leonard here.
Going beyond Richardson and Leonard, here are three other players to watch for.
RB DJ Giddens
Giddens will be competing with Seth McGowan for the Colts’ backup running back role. Giddens’ year of experience in Shane Steichen’s offense should give him an advantage, and OTAs provide him with an opportunity in a more competitive environment to showcase the growth he’s had.
Giddens was a very productive ball carrier at Kansas State, but needed to improve in the passing game, particularly in pass protection. This contributed to him having a small role as a rookie.
“We think Giddens will take another step,” Ballard said during his pre-draft press conference.
OL Matt Goncalves
Goncalves made the transition from tackle to guard last season and held his own throughout the year. This offseason, Goncalves bulked up, putting on good weight to better handle the power rushers he will be up against along the interior.
A fast start and building upon what was established last season will be important with the addition of Jalen Farmer in the draft, who could potentially push for playing time.
WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
Competing for the Colts’ WR3 role will be Westbrook-Ikhine, Ashton Dulin, and Deion Burks. Compared to Dulin, Westbrook-Ikhine has been the far more productive pass-catcher in their respective careers. He also has a lot more experience than Burks, an incoming rookie.
Can those factors help Westbrook-Ikhine separate himself from the pack in the early going of this competition?
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 3 Colts players on offense to keep your eyes on during OTA practices
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
