With OTAs for the Indianapolis Colts beginning on May 26, let’s take a look at three things to watch for on the offensive side of the ball as the next few weeks unfold.
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.
Now, here’s what to watch for on offense.
The reps at quarterback
With Daniel Jones still rehabbing, someone has to take the first-team quarterback reps during OTAs. Will that be Anthony Richardson or Riley Leonard? When asked about how the reps shook out at quarterback during Phase II of offseason programs, head coach Shane Steichen didn’t provide any specifics.
The Colts have been trying to trade Richardson, but have been unable to find a trade partner. If he continues to remain with the team, will he and Leonard end up competing for the backup role?
“Right now, we’re in May, we’ll see how it goes with all that,” said Steichen of Richardson competing for the backup role in early May. “He’s working, he’s here, he’s in good spirits, he was cleared with the play with the vision stuff, so that part’s good.”
The right side of the Colts’ offensive line
Admittedly, it’s very difficult to evaluate offensive line play during this time of the year when there is no contact. But how Matt Goncalves and Jalen Travis hold up on the right side of the line this season will be vital to the Colts’ success on offense.
Goncalves made the transition from tackle to guard last season, while Travis will be entering Year 2 after getting some valuable reps down the stretch last year.
“We’re going to bet on some development,” said GM Chris Ballard of Goncalves and Travis during his pre-draft press conference.
Rookie Jalen Farmer could potentially push either player for snaps if needed.
Who stands out at wide receiver?
The WR3 role alongside of Alec Pierce and Josh Downs is up for grabs. Presumably competing for those snaps will be Ashton Dulin, Deion Burks, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.
My expectation as of now is that we see a by-committee approach throughout the season, with the matchups and in-game situations dictating who sees the bulk of the snaps on a weekly basis. That said, whoever can get off to a fast start during OTAs may give themselves the inside track heading into training camp.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 3 things to watch for on offense during Colts’ OTA practices
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
