The Indianapolis Colts dropped their second preseason game on Saturday, losing 34-6 to the Atlanta Falcons.
In a game where very little went right for the Colts, let’s take stock of where this team stands, with a look at those who are on the rise and those who dropped.
Stock up: WR Coleman Owen and WR Deion Burks
As Owen looks to continue making a roster push, he generated an explosive play on offense, recording a 39-yard reception on a catch-and-run. But perhaps more importantly when it comes to Owen’s roster chances, he averaged 26.0 yards per return on two kick return attempts, and he had a punt return go for 17 yards as well.
Burks would lead the team in receptions with four, totaling 19 yards. He also accounted for 120 kick return yards on five attempts. He and Owen are battling for potentially the final roster spot at wide receiver.
Stock down: Cornerback depth
It’s been a rough two preseason games for this group, excluding Cam Taylor-Britt. But the trio of Mekhi Blackmon, Rob Carter Jr., and Johnathan Edwards all took their lumps. Blackmon was again penalized twice. Carter, who started over Johnathan Edwards, allowed two receptions for 47 yards, and Edwards gave up yet another downfield pass play. Atlanta’s quarterbacks averaged nearly 11 yards per pass attempt — that’s a lot.
Stock up: K Spencer Shrader
In practice, Blake Grupe has been the better kicker — and it hasn’t been particularly close. But in the preseason games, Shrader is yet to miss, while Grupe is yet to make an attempt. This has very much become a close competition.
Stock down: Pass rush depth
In this game, the Colts generated just one sack and one quarterback hit, which came late in the game. Jaylahn Tuimoloau has been very quiet. The lack of a pass rush was a big reason why the Falcons’ quarterbacks did whatever they wanted.
Stock up: CB Jaylon Jones
While much of the cornerback room struggled, Jones turned in a solid performance. According to PFF, he was targeted twice and didn’t allow a reception. Jones also showed up in the run game. Perhaps Lou Anarumo will give him some more opportunities in the final week.
Stock down: Offensive line depth
The Colts’ quarterbacks faced regular pressure, and the run game struggled to get going. There were a few bad snap exchanges as well. It’s tough to move the ball when the offensive line struggles.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts vs. Falcons stock report: Who’s up and who’s down?
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
