OTAs have arrived for the Indianapolis Colts, providing several rookies an opportunity to begin their push for a starting role this season.
In this third phase of offseason programs, no contact can take place, but teams can do competitive team periods.
Not included on this list is second-round pick CJ Allen, who is already the presumed starting MIKE linebacker for the Colts. The other four players mentioned, however, will have to carve out a starting role through OTAs and training camp.
S AJ Haulcy
Haulcy will compete for playing time next to Cam Bynum with Jonathan Owens, Hunter Wohler, and Juanyeh Thomas. The Colts view Haulcy as a very versatile defender and one who brings strong ball skills to the secondary.
LB Bryce Boettcher
The Colts believe Boettcher can play both the MIKE and WILL positions, but with CJ Allen on the roster, Boettcher should compete for the WILL linebacker role with Akeem Davis-Gaither.
OL Jalen Farmer
Although Farmer played guard in college, GM Chris Ballard believes he has the flexibility to play tackle as well. He could push Matt Goncalves or even Jalen Travis for playing time this summer.
WR Deion Burks
Burks could find himself in the mix for playing time right away, with the WR3 role up for grabs. As he did at Oklahoma, the Colts view him as a player who can line up inside and out, and the team is bullish about the playmaking potential he could add to the offense.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 4 Colts rookies who begin push for starting roles in OTAs
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
