RSS Colts Team Notes

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts stick to top of AFC playoff picture with win

The Indianapolis Colts won their Sunday game over the plucky Arizona Cardinals. With the win, the Colts stay atop the AFC and no matter what happens on Sunday and Monday, Indianapolis will enter Week 7 atop the conference.

In the AFC South, the Jacksonville Jaguars fell on Sunday to the Seattle Seahawks, giving Indianapolis even more breathing room in the AFC South. The Houston Texans remain 2-3 on the bye.

Here is what the standings look like at 4:30 Eastern, 3:30 Central.

AFC playoff standings during Week 6​

1. Indianapolis Colts (5-1)
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1, 3-0 AFC)
3. Buffalo Bills (4-1, 3-1 AFC)
4. Los Angeles Chargers (4-2, win over DEN)
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2, 2-1 AFC)
6. Denver Broncos (4-2, loss to LAC, 3-2 AFC)
7. New England Patriots (4-2, 2-2 AFC)
8. Kansas City Chiefs (3-3)
9. Houston Texans (2-3)
10. Cincinnati Bengals (2-4)
11. Las Vegas Raiders (2-4)
12. Baltimore Ravens (1-5)
13. Miami Dolphins (1-5)
14. Cleveland Browns (1-5)
15. Tennessee Titans (1-5)
16. New York Jets (0-6)

AFC South standings during Week 6​

The Jaguars loss gave the Colts some breathing room. The Tennessee Titans play in the late Sunday window. Here are the standings as of now.

1. Indianapolis Colts (5-1)
2. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2)
3. Houston Texans (2-3)
4. Tennessee Titans (1-4)

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-stick-to-top-of-afc-playoff-picture-with-win

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

How competitive can the Colts be in a suddenly less daunting AFC?

One of the things that may have made the last 6 – 8 years of midland results somewhat bearable, is the fact that even on our good days, it was hard to see us advancing in a loaded AFC. If the beast that has been the Chiefs were going to be dethroned, it was a common perception that it would be the Bills, Ravens, or possibly the Bengals that would be doing the damage. After all, we have had no one in the same area code of talent to Mahomes, Allen, Jackson, or Burrow. Heck, we were not even on the Herbert level of play. It has felt like an exercise in futility to believe that the best we could hope for was to back in to a division title.

2025 has seen some of the top contenders fall back toward the mean. I’m not pronouncing anyone dead by any stretch, but some of the heavy hitters have already put up more stinkers than they commonly do in a full season. Since the Chiefs have a national audience for virtually every game, we saw some chinks against division foe Jacksonville. They get everyone’s best, but they have been for years now. Monday night saw Josh Allen frustrated and saw the Bills defense exposed to strong run game. Many wonder if Lamar Jackson’s return will be enough to save the Ravens? That defense has given up 21 TDs to date. For perspective, their 2000 version gave up 18 for the entire season. Cincy is starting Joe Flacco, which should say it all.

Burrow’s injury has the Bengals out of the mix, leaving the Steelers to control their own destiny in the North. Nice team, well coached, but far from scary. We will have a solid grasp on what the West has, as we play each team. So far, so good, but the Chargers and Chiefs remain, with both games on the road. In our own division, Jacksonville might be the biggest surprise in the league, if we were not sporting the 5 – 1 record. Houston is the defending champ, but they will play a 1st place schedule. You have to notice that they held the Rams to 14 and the Bucs to 20, so even if they do not exhibit fire power, they offer tough sledding.

With all of that said, there is a widely shared observation that states, “The games don’t matter until Thanksgiving”. Some teams may not be reaching their full potential at this point, but based on their track record, they have a ways to go to get there. So, for this exercise, lets see if we can gauge how good we can be, compared to what level we need to be to match the conferences’ best, when and if they get to their best. Our poll is not about who you think will win the AFC, just how confident are you that we can compete at a high level in the AFC.

Our choices:

Haven’t you looked, they have to get to our level! We are just getting started and can score with anyone in the league. Once we get some defensive pieces back, we are the team to beat.

If we add the right piece, we can be as good as anyone in the league. Once you’re in the tourney, you get to settle it on the field, so “Why not us?”

The usual suspects will eventually kick it in to high gear. I’m not sure that we can match their best. I hope so, but it has been so long since I was optimistic, I’m not sure I know how to be that way?

Our offense is on par with the upper crust of the league, but may not be sustainable against better defenses. Our defense will not allow us to advance past the pack. We may still need to be lucky to get to the playoffs.

Playoffs….. Playoffs???

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...-the-colts-be-in-a-suddenly-less-daunting-afc

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts waive former starting LB off injured reserve

Per the league transaction wire, the Indianapolis Colts waived former starting linebacker Joe Bachie (foot) off of injured reserve.

Signed by the Colts this past offseason to 1-year, $1.2 million deal, the former Cincinnati Bengals core special teamer reunited with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo in Indianapolis.

Only with the Colts’ lack of proven linebacker options alongside returning All-Pro Zaire Franklin at linebacker, Bachie played pretty well in training camp and preseason, ultimately winning the other starting linebacker job outright.

Bachie started 5 games for Indianapolis, recording 26 tackles (11 solo) and a pass defensed.

Per PFF, he earned just a +45.4 overall grade, which ranks 123rd of 140 qualifying linebackers.

Slightly undersized at 6’2”, 235 pounds, Bachie was expected to struggle a bit in run defense, but it was also his pass coverage ability that ended up being simultaneously also poor. In the end here, he became unplayable.

After five games, the Colts desperately needed to upgrade at the position.

Indianapolis did just that when they signed another former Bengals linebacker, Germaine Pratt, who was coincidentally released by the Las Vegas Raiders just a few weeks ago.

At the very least, Pratt should be able to hold up in run defense and in his Indy debut last weekend, actually led the Colts in tackles during their tough home win against the Arizona Cardinals.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-waive-former-starting-lb-off-injured-reserve

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: CB Moore Returns To Practice

The Indianapolis Colts today released their Wednesday injury report for Week 6 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Arizona Cardinals.

wednesday's practice report for #INDvsLAC. pic.twitter.com/bCgLXj5Rah

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 15, 2025

Wide receiver Josh Downs missed practice today due to a concussion. Downs took a big hurt during his touchdown catch which could have been the cause of his concussion. Downs will now enter into the leagues concussion protocol.

Wide receiver Ashton Dulin missed practice today with a chest injury. Dulin saw his snap count on the offense increase when he filled in for the injured Pierce the last few weeks. Even managed to get a snap on defense too.

Cornerback Kenny Moore was limited at practice today due to an Achilles injury. Moore returns to practice after missing several weeks of practice and games. Moore is still unlikely to play this week but him managing to practice is a huge step in the right direction for his recovery.

Cornerback Charvarius Ward missed practice today with a concussion. Under very freak circumstances Ward was concussed during warmups before Sundays game. Ward and his team mate Drew Ogletree collided before the game and Ward was ultimately concussed and quickly ruled out. Ward will now enter the leagues concussion protocol.

Running back Tyler Goodson missed practice due to a groin injury. Wide receiver Alec Pierce was a full participant despite

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ts-injury-report-cb-moore-returns-to-practice

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey Week 7: It’s time to believe in Indianapolis

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Colts fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Who would have guessed that Daniel Jones could resurrect his career as an NFL starter in Indianapolis — much less excel? Well, that’s exactly what’s happened, and it must have Colts fans feeling awfully confident. This is your chance to let us know how confident you are.

Take our survey below, scroll down to the comment section and share your thoughts with your fellow fans, and check Stampede Blue later this week for results!

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...an-survey-week-7-daniel-jones-jonathan-taylor

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts CB Kenny Moore II will return to the fray against Chargers

Indianapolis, IN — Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen revealed to local media following Friday’s practice that longtime Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (Achilles) will indeed play on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers. Moore II’s only logged two limited practices between his injury and today’s media availability; therefore, it’s fair to wonder just how healthy he is. Indy’s secondary, and more specifically its cornerback room, has quickly dwindled in recent weeks, starting with the unfortunate injury to Moore II back in Week 3.

Fast forward to Week 7, and the Colts are traveling West to take on the Los Angeles Chargers in a battle for the number one seed in the AFC. Top boundary cornerback Charvarius Ward Sr. has been ruled out for Sunday’s contest as he works through the concussion protocol — a separate bizarre freak injury that transpired in pre-game warmups ahead of their matchup against the Arizona Cardinals — therefore the Colts’ cornerback room is yet again down bad, though the insertion of Moore II’s talents should raise the secondary’s floor in pass coverage, even if only marginally.

In just three games played so far in 2025-26, Kenny Moore II has played like his normal self. Registering a big-time play from different aspects on defense is what makes him such a special player, and Moore II has remained such a playmaker by logging a pick-six, forced fumble, and a sack during his first three weeks of play.

It’s fantastic, and almost necessary, timing for Kenny Moore II to return to the fold against Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert and company. Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo once again has a chess piece amongst the defensive backfield to play with, which is additionally promising given that Chargers second-year wide receiver Ladd McConkey has blossomed into more than just a slot receiver.

According to Next Gen Stats, McConkey has primarily aligned in the slot this season (59.6%) but has aligned out wide (35.6%) more frequently than last year (2024: 29.1%). He’s been more effective when lined up wide this season, posting an 83.3% catch rate (10 of 12) for 183 yards, while generating +50 receiving yards over expected.

From the slot, McConkey has caught just 16 of 28 targets (57.1% catch rate) for 119 yards and one touchdown (-32 receiving yards over expected). Last season, McConkey recorded 801 yards from the slot (2nd-most) and a league-high +195 receiving yards over expected.

There’s simply no reason to presume this to mean that McConkey is no longer a viable option from the slot, but rather to showcase his progression as a young wideout in the NFL. With Kenny Moore II back into the picture, a longtime nickel defender whose proven to be a viable option at boundary corner when necessary, Anarumo can, in theory, utilize shadow coverage to keep Moore II glued on the weapon in question.

The Chargers’ other starting wide receivers in Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston are by no means slouches, either. Allen’s 3rd-down target percentage (39.6%) is the highest in the league, whereas Johnston has gained a newfound sense of self by running a career-high 43.3% of his routes on in-breakers. Herbert’s top three wideouts will be a tall task for Indy’s currently constructed pass defense; therefore, Kenny Moore II’s return instills much more confidence than before.

Kenny Moore II returning too early remains the only concern regarding his activation. An Achilles injury is nothing to scoff at or rush back from; therefore, it’s understandable if local fans have PTSD-riddled concerns that what happened to Tyrese Haliburton will happen to the Colts’ longtime cornerback. It makes sense why this mid-season game is being taken so seriously, given the stakes. This matchup could very well decide the AFC’s number one seed, not just moving forward, but for the regular season in totality. Any NFL team could always use Kenny Moore II’s services, but this week, the Indianapolis Colts desperately need him if they want a chance.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...e-ii-will-return-to-the-fray-against-chargers

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Health and consistency at quarterback is helping Taylor shine for the Colts

Jonathan Taylor is back. Was he ever really gone could be the question, but whether one feels the running back for the Indianapolis Colts seemed to be slipping over the last few years, this season proves he is back among the elites. 2021 saw him post insane numbers and run roughshod over the rest of the NFL. It was his coming out party, but the lights quickly went out as his health became a factor and the inability of the organization to find an elite player at quarterback took its toll. Those fears are starting to fade into the rearview mirror, however.

Taylor missed a lot of time over the last three seasons, appearing in eleven, ten, and fourteen games. He was hampered by a thumb injury and a high ankle sprain that never seemed to heal. The ankle dragged on into the infamous hold-out and cost him way too much time after an offseason to heal. Taylor got his contract but struggled to find his way back onto the field in 2023. Running backs can get dinged up and too many dings can affect burst and speed. Taylor is looking like the back of old as he is on pace to surpass 1,700 yards and 20 touchdowns. That would put him right up there with his 2021 masterclass season and show health is the key to his success.

If his health is the key then having a competent quarterback who can provide a high level of consistent play is the hand that turns that key. Just like most quarterback and running back duos, they feed off each other. Daniel Jones is the reclamation story of the NFL in part to having a feared running game. The reverse works for Taylor. When teams can’t load the box, it opens everything up for the running back. Taylor can make his own holes and break tackles but it makes it a lot easier when the defense has to honor a high level passing game too. The emergence of strong receiver play and a top tier tight end make Taylor less of the game plan focus and therefore, more of a threat. He is still a focus, but not the only one. That allows him to shred the opponent on the ground.

Jonathan Taylor is having another magical run which highlights his ability to find the endzone, make something out of nothing, and break off huge runs. Those are all the components needed to be in the conversation for Offensive Player of the Year. Not dealing with nagging injuries and being a part of a multidimensional offense have been the key ingredient. With someone like Taylor, one can only expect him to get stronger as the season progresses. If that happens and he retains his health, the rest of the NFL will be in danger.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...terback-is-helping-taylor-shine-for-the-colts

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts place top cornerback on IR among other roster moves

The Indianapolis Colts announced that top outside starting cornerback Charvarius Ward has been placed on injured reserve, as he suffered his second concussion of the season during pre-game warmups last weekend.

Ward shockingly collided during warmups with teammate Drew Ogletree in what was another freak pre-game accident and was ruled out of last weekend’s win against the Arizona Cardinals with a concussion. He did not practice with the team this week, as he has yet to clear the league’s concussion protocol.

With the Colts having a BYE week in Week 11, the earliest he’ll be eligible to return is Week 12 on the road against the reigning AFC Champion Kansas City Chiefs.

It’s obviously a critical blow to the Colts secondary to lose an elite CB1 on the outside during the next few weeks.

On the season, Ward has 13 tackles (9 solo) and 3 passes defensed during 4 stars. Per PFF, he’s currently their 2nd best graded NFL cornerback with a +83.4 overall grade—highlighted by a +83.0 coverage grade.

The Colts elevated cornerback Cameron Mitchell from their practice squad in a corresponding roster move.

It’s expected that veteran slot cornerback Kenny Moore II will return to the Colts this weekend, which will be a boost—even if he’s on an initial pitch count of sorts. With Ward out though, it will likely be Mekhi Blackmon and undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards on the outside again for Indianapolis—which needless to say, isn’t ideal.

Indianapolis also announced that veteran running back Ameer Abdullah has been signed from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster, and the team also elevated veteran wideout Laquon Treadwell for Sunday’s contest against the Los Angeles Chargers. Backup running back Tyler Goodson (elbow) has been downgraded to ‘out.’

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...top-cornerback-on-ir-among-other-roster-moves

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Recently waived ex-Colts LB starter Joe Bachie joins Titans

According to the league wire, recently waived-injured Indianapolis Colts linebacker Joe Bachie has been signed to the Tennessee Titans practice squad, after working out for the AFC South rival earlier this week.

During 5 starts for the Colts earlier this season, Bachie recorded 26 tackles (11 solo) and a pass defensed, but largely struggled in both run defense and pass coverage before being placed on injured reserve with a foot injury.

Per PFF, he earned just a +45.4 overall grade this season with the Colts, which ranked 124th out of 140 total qualifying linebackers.

Seeking to upgrade the linebacker position, the Colts added surprisingly available, released veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt, formerly of the Las Vegas Raiders, who actually led the Indianapolis defense in total tackles during last weekend’s home win against the Arizona Cardinals.

Given Bachie’s recent poor performance and a more crowded Indy linebacker room—and with him now seemingly healthy and ready to be activated off I.R., it made sense for the Colts to cut ties with the former Cincinnati Bengals core special teamer, who largely struggled in a new starter’s role with the Indianapolis defense. His reunion with his former defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo didn’t go as well as initially planned.

As far as other Colts are concerned, it’s also worth noting that the Denver Broncos also released former Indianapolis backup quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who was with Indianapolis from 2021-23.

Given his familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen’s offense and system, it’s possible he could be a candidate for the Colts QB3 job, even with the recent practice squad addition of backup quarterback Brett Rypien earlier this week.

The Colts are down their primary backup quarterback, as 3rd-year pro Anthony Richardson went on injured reserve earlier this week with an orbital bone fracture that was suffered during pre-game preparations with a medical band last weekend in what’s clearly considered a freak accident of sorts. He’ll miss at least four weeks until he’s first eligible to return off of injured reserve.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...d-ex-colts-lb-starter-joe-bachie-joins-titans

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts electric offense keeps humming in statement win over Chargers

The Indianapolis Colts never trailed and delivered a statement road win to improve to 6-1 Sunday, overpowering the Los Angeles Chargers 38–24 at SoFi Stadium.

The NFL’s most electric offense steamrolled through another AFC opponent behind a balanced showcase that featured three rushing touchdowns from running back Jonathan Taylor for the third time this season to add to his league-leading 10 rushing scores. Indianapolis entered Week 7 averaging an NFL-best 6.8 yards per play on first down, and controlled the tempo from the opening drive to victory formation. Colts head coach Shane Steichen’s game plan to throw to score and run to win was put on full display as the blend of motion, misdirection and play-action kept the Chargers (4-3) off balance.

Quarterback Daniel Jones commanded with precision by completing 23 of 34 passes for 288 passing yards and two touchdowns. It certainly helps to play alongside the NFL’s leading rusher, who forces opponents to constantly bite at the fake. Jones continues to thrive when running play-action and making easy reads in Steichen’s run-pass-option scheme.

It took just five plays for Indianapolis to open the scoring in the first quarter as Taylor ripped through the Chargers’ front and turned on the jets for a 23-yard touchdown run that capped a 75-yard opening drive in under three minutes. Taylor finished with 94 rushing yards on 16 carries and added 38 receiving yards.

give him 6

CBS pic.twitter.com/I98ojXTd9W

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 19, 2025

Jones engineered a marathon 17-play, 70-yard drive midway through the second quarter by converting a pair of fourth downs before finding receiver Michael Pittman Jr. for a 4-yard touchdown pass. Pittman finished with seven catches for 58 yards and scored his fifth touchdown catch of the season. In the next series, Jones connected with rookie tight end Tyler Warren on a slant for a 5-yard touchdown to stretch the lead to 20–3. Warren continued to prove he is a reliable option as a pass-catcher and finished with four catches for 69 receiving yards, while becoming the third rookie tight end in the Super Bowl era to reach the end zone in four straight games.

the rookie the endzone

CBS pic.twitter.com/GZRYfKCP6f

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 19, 2025

Indianapolis used two timely defensive takeaways to stun the Chargers to a 20-point deficit three different times. The Colts delivered perhaps the most pivotal sequence to seize control late in the second quarter when defensive tackle Grover Stewart batted a pass from Chargers QB Justin Herbert into the air and hauled in the interception to terminate the threat inside Colts territory. Safety Nick Cross picked off Justin Herbert in the end zone to end another Chargers threat on the first play following the two minute warning.

Nick says thank you very much.

CBS pic.twitter.com/iESUWgM3ib

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 19, 2025

Even when the Chargers found their rhythm in the second half, Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner collected two clutch sacks in key moments and second-year edge rusher Laiatu Latu tallied his third sack of the year. The Chargers rallied with three consecutive touchdown drives to keep it relatively within striking distance, but the Colts matched with three scoring drives of their own that needed just five plays or less to reach the end zone.

The Colts capitalized on Ameer Abdullah’s 81-yard kickoff return, which set up the offense with tremendous field position inside the red zone. The Colts just needed seven offensive plays to add two more scores in the second half as Taylor rushed in twice more with an 8-yard score, followed by another 19-yard touchdown run to put the game on ice. Taylor’s fifth career performance with three rushing TDs tied Edgerrin James for the franchise record.

The Colts return home to host the reeling Tennessee Titans (1-6) next Sunday inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-keeps-humming-in-statement-win-over-chargers

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts stake claim to top spot in AFC

The Indianapolis Colts and Los Angeles Chargers battled for AFC supremacy on Sunday and the Colts demolished their West Coast counterparts. Indianapolis is for real and they are the last one-loss team in the AFC. No doubt.

The New England Patriots won to stay in second place while the Denver Broncos used a massive fourth quarter to win and leap frog the Los Angeles Chargers into third place atop the AFC West.

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost on Thursday and fall to fourth.

The Buffalo Bills lead the wild card race while on their bye and the Chargers sit in fifth after their loss dropped them to 4-3. They are ahead of the Jaguars, who sit at 4-3 but a tiebreaker gives them the spot over the 4-3 Kansas City Chiefs.

AFC playoff standings during Week 7​

The Bills and Ravens were on the bye this week.

1. Indianapolis Colts (6-1)
2. New England Patriots (5-2)
3. Denver Broncos (5-2)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2)
5. Buffalo Bills (4-2)
6. Los Angeles Chargers (4-3, 4-1 AFC)
7. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-3, win over KC)
8. Kansas City Chiefs (4-3, loss to JAX)
9. Cincinnati Bengals (3-4)
10. Houston Texans (2-3)
11. Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)
12. Cleveland Browns (2-5)
13. Baltimore Ravens (1-5)
14. Miami Dolphins (1-6)
15. Tennessee Titans (1-6)
16. New York Jets (0-7)

AFC South standings during Week 6​

The Jacksonville Jaguars lost on Sunday giving the Colts even more breathing room. The Texans play on Monday night.

1. Indianapolis Colts (6-1)
2. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2)
3. Houston Texans (2-3)
4. Tennessee Titans (1-4)

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...anapolis-colts-stake-claim-to-top-spot-in-afc

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

No longer ‘happy go lucky,’ these surprising Colts have become legit AFC contender

No one, and I mean absolutely no one, realistically thought the Indianapolis Colts would be this good outside of anyone directly employed at their W. 56th Street complex or with some really Horseshoe blue tinted glasses.

This isn’t just a good team that may sneak into an AFC wild card game anymore, with the right breaks down the season’s stretch, but sitting at 6-1 and atop the AFC, they’re now a bonafide Super Bowl contender.

As CBS analyst and future NFL Hall of Famer J.J. Watt eloquently put it on the telecast, “Everyone’s waiting for the other shoe to drop. Let me tell you, that shoe ain’t dropping.”

Watt reiterated that the Colts “have no weaknesses” right now.

While there is assuredly work to be done, potentially in a depleted Colts cornerback room and for a stalling edge rush outside 2nd-year pass rusher Laiatu Latu—as next month’s NFL trade deadline rapidly approaches, one doesn’t have to make much of a leap of faith at all to believe that this looks and feels like a legitimate AFC contender—*health permitting for the remainder of the season.

This elite NFL offense continues to put on a clinic week-after-week and looks incredibly difficult to stop—as every bit of a well-oiled, prolific scoring and efficient machine:

Through seven weeks, the Colts are the most efficient offense by points per drive this century pic.twitter.com/4oyLckuShS

— Anthony Dabbundo (@AnthonyDabbundo) October 20, 2025

We always knew that Colts head coach Shane Steichen was a gifted offensive play-caller and one of the better young offensive minds in the league—even after last season’s collective disappointment.

Everything that he seems to call is going great right now, and he may lead the league in consistently scheming receivers wide open through his astute play-calling so far this season. He’s been on a heater.

It’s not just that he’s calling great plays though, the Colts players are also executing them close to perfection.

He’s been in complete lock step with new Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, and when this head coach-quarterback pairing isn’t attending Butler basketball games together on a Friday night, they’re breaking opposing defenses and their coordinators collective spirits out on football fields fresh come Sunday afternoons.

Jones has so far mastered the offense, showing exceptional pre-snap recognition, poise, progression, accuracy, and an ability to extend plays under pressure. He’s looked like the former franchise quarterback that New York Giants fans thought they had when they selected him with the 6th overall pick back in the 2019 NFL Draft.

A year ago everyone wanted the Colts to fire the GM and weren’t sure about the head coach either. It was so obvious the solution to all of these issues was Daniel Jones. I mean, duh.

— Colin Cowherd (@colincowherd) October 19, 2025

Fortunately, the Colts don’t have to decide anytime soon and can let the regular season play out for a larger sample size to reference, but he looks like he’ll be the eventual recipient of a lucrative, multi-year contract extension, presumably similar to the one that now successful former first round reclamation quarterback Sam Darnold just received with the Seattle Seahawks this past offseason.

It’s not just Steichen and Jones though.

That would be selling everyone else collectively short, and there’s a lot of collective praise to go around.

It’s superstar workhorse Johnathan Taylor, who leads the league in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns, and looks like the favorite for NFL Offensive Player of the Year and a legitimate NFL MVP candidate, for a prestigious individual award that’s historically been reserved for top quarterbacks in more modern league history.

It’s an offensive line that’s moving and manhandling opposing defensive linemen and linebackers upfront seemingly at will more often than not, paving huge running lanes for Taylor, while keeping Jones largely upright to make plays both in and outside the pocket.

It’s top rookie tight end Tyler Warren, who’s been a dynamic, versatile playmaker all over the field—with three receiving touchdowns in three straight games, and presented a mismatch nightmare that opposing defenses have yet to effectively neutralize but always have to somehow still account for while game-planning and preparing.

It’s a ‘pick your poison’ receiving corps with big bodied possession wideout Michael Pittman Jr., deep ball acrobat Alec Pierce, savvy natural slot Josh Downs, etc. where opposing defenses cannot simply lock on one guy. What the Colts lack in having a truly elite WR1, they have one of the deepest receiving rooms in football right now.

Under new veteran defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and the veteran additions of both safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Charvarius Ward in the secondary, the Colts defense is better and much improved from last year.

There’s no more soft zone coverage no matter the down and/or situation, but rather, this defense is being tailored to each particular weekly matchup. It’s an opportunistic defense that after leaving Sunday’s game is allowing the 8th fewest points (20.0 avg. ppg)—even with their depleted cornerback room. After picking off Los Angeles Chargers Pro Bowl quarterback Justin Herbert twice yesterday, the Colts rank 3rd best in total takeaways (11).

Things feel really good right now in Indianapolis.

That was a statement road win against a very good and well coached football team, and a game that the Colts of more recent seasons would’ve found a way to falter late.

It’s time to give some credit when it’s due too. With an underwhelming quarterback situation and a GM and head coach who were both on the hot seat, this season almost felt over before it started—entering the 2025 campaign.

The Colts made the right moves though in the face of critics, in what’s shaping up to be a nearly perfect offseason.

Under the three Irsay daughters new energized leadership, an improved Colts clubhouse and culture, and an elite offense that’s routinely giving opposing defenses nightmares, backed by a defense that can opportunistically make plays (especially if it can shore up some deficiencies here soon), it’s an Indianapolis squad that could potentially be playing deep, late winter football again—which has been a very long time coming for the Horseshoe faithful.

There’s real reasons for optimism right now in Indy, as this feels and looks likes a well-rounded Colts juggernaut that has realistic aspirations of hoisting an elusive Lombardi Trophy—if they can keep up their great work.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...ising-colts-have-become-a-legit-afc-contender

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Week 7 QB Analysis: The Efficient Engine

Thanks to the nflFastR project, Pro Football Focus and NFL NextGen Stats for the timely sources of data.

For those of you new to this, I will publish key QB stats each week judging how well the Colts’ QB performed. Yes, O-Line, receivers, and play-calling impact these numbers but they are primarily QB measures. I will probably modify the charts throughout the season. Commentary will be brief but feel free to let me know in the comments that stats aren’t everything. (click charts for larger view)

---

HOW WELL?​

This week, Daniel Jones continued his trend of producing a high volume of positive plays while limiting the impact of negative ones. In Week 7, he ranks 9th in both success rate and EPA efficiency. He’s consistent, minimizes mistakes, and brings explosive capability. In short, he’s doing exactly what you want from a quarterback.

With no interceptions, he posted a bounce-back in EPA per play, even as his success rate dipped slightly. His yards per play remained high, leading to an elevated play conversion rate.

---

HOW FAR?​

He struggled with completions early, going just 5-for-9 to start, but that’s the beauty of having a strong run game—when the passing attack sputtered early, the offense still found ways to score. Jones eventually settled in, finishing just shy of 70% on the day, and missing on only two of his final ten attempts helped seal the win.

Passing depth was up this week, as he recorded the 6th-longest average attempt distance and raised his completion depth back to around league average.

---

TO WHO?​

Pierce stole the show with 10 targets, finishing just shy of 100 yards. Warren was a YAC machine throughout the game.

On the season, Pittman retakes the lead in targets, but Warren still owns the yardage crown.

You don’t want to be in the lower-right quadrant of this graph—and none of the Colts’ receivers are.

The trio with the most targets—Warren, Downs, and Pittman—sit well above the league-average value line.

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HOW ACCURATE?​

Completion percentage dipped slightly this week, but with the deeper throws, it actually translated to a higher accuracy rate (CPOE). Jones is absolutely killing it on passes between 0 and 20 yards.

---

HOW FAST?​

Time to throw was again slightly above the league average this week—but with deeper attempts, that’s to be expected.

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TO WHERE?​

He primarily targeted the left side of the field but found the most success throwing to the right. Those results might not be entirely independent.

For the season… hold up—what’s that red patch doing there?

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DASHBOARD​

mouseover definitions: epa/d, median EPA gain in similar game situation (down, distance, etc.)”>arsr, 3 yards to gain in game-neutral situations”>edp, opd, pr%, tip, ttt, adot, ay/c, yac, yacoe, yd/c, ac%, cpoe, aypa, scr%, ta%, sck%, aa%, aay, ny/d, ny/p, 1st%, td%, to%, 0″>qbsr epa/p, adj/p

• The Colts remained a pass-first team, even though the run game was extremely productive (1st ARSR, 9th EDP).
• Jones faced roughly average pressure and took about an average amount of time to throw, despite maintaining solid downfield depth on his attempts (18th PR%, 15th TTT, 6th ADOT).
• His depth of completions was around league average, but the receivers provided excellent YAC, and when combined with a high completion rate, it pushed his yards-per-attempt efficiency into the top 5 (17th AY/C, 6th YAC, 9th AC%, 4th AYPA).
• Add to that the fact that he had very few scrambles, throwaways, or sacks, and you get dropback yardage that ranked 3rd highest on the week (21st Scr%, 19th TA%, 28th Sck%, 3rd NY/D).
• He consistently moved the chains, which led to a pair of touchdown passes—and, importantly, no turnovers (8th 1st%, 11th TD%, 26th TO%).

All of that translates to another top-10 performance overall (9th QBSR, 9th EPA/P).

mouseover definitions: ay<, dp%, ay/c, yac, yd/c, ac%, aypa, drp%, aypa, ta%, ypa, sck%, ny/a, scr%, ny/d, car%, ny/p, 1st%, any/p, td%, any/p, to%, any/p, epa/p, opd, adj/p

His efficiency curve is strong, showing a steady upward trend as different play outcomes—drops, incompletions, sacks, and so on—are factored in.

Although it’s not shown here, I have him ranked 9th in deep passing and #1 under pressure. The only real weakness is in the red zone, where his efficiency dips to 18th. But hey—that’s what a strong run game is for.

On the year, Jones holds the highest EPA efficiency of any quarterback, and even after adjusting for opponent strength, that only drops to 3rd overall.

For a guy I bad-mouthed so much before the season, he’s making me look like an idiot.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nfl-analysis-play-breakdowns/116609/colts-week-7-qb-analysis

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Can you believe the Colts are first in the AFC?

The Indianapolis Colts are 6-1. Read that sentence again. The Colts could be 7-0 if it weren’t for several bonehead plays against the Rams. Ok, let’s not focus on what could have been. Let’s focus on the here and now. Seven weeks in and the Colts hold the best record in all of football. Even your most diehard fans would have been hard pressed to place a bet on the current results. Is it sustainable? Will it hold? Those are questions we will have answers to shortly, but in the meantime, it is something to behold.

When Daniel Jones was named the starter, the fanbase was split. Regardless of whether you found yourself on team Richardson or Jones, it seemed apparent that this franchise was going nowhere fast. How could you look at the last ten years and think much differently? Chris Ballard continued to employ old heads and retreads to play the most important position in sports. It hadn’t worked before and here they were going back to that same dried up well again. Jones had been unceremoniously kicked out of New York and took a bag of money with him. It seemed like a season that at best would hover near .500 or at worst, bottom out.

Well, look at the Colts now. Have they played some bad teams? Yep, some really bad ones. Have they obliterated them? Absolutely. They kicked out the collective teeth of the Dolphins, Titans, and Raiders. They handled bad teams exactly as a true contender should. They have played some good teams too in the Broncos, Rams, and Chargers. Luck, both good and bad played a factor in two of them but that is to be expected over the course of a season. Sometimes the ball bounces your way; other times it doesn’t.

What they did on the road against the Chargers, I don’t care how much the Chargers have struggled of late, was highly impressive. It was a major carryover of the offensive onslaught we have seen all year. The Chargers’ defense isn’t exact porous, but it looked as if my friends and I were out there in coverage. Whatever the Colts wanted, they got. Three touchdowns in a row to start a game puts an inordinate amount of pressure on the opposing offense to keep up. The Chargers got it together late, but it was simply that, late. The score was too high and the game too far out of reach. The first place Colts had taken it to them.

No lies here. There was no world in which I had the Colts sitting atop the standings seven weeks into the season. I was camp “7-9”, but certainly wasn’t camp “the number one seed in the AFC is anywhere near a potential reality”. There is so much season left and big games on the schedule coming up. Things can shift quickly in the NFL, but for now, on this October day, the Colts are in first place, not just in their division, but in the entire AFC. Read that sentence again…

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116661/can-you-believe-the-colts-are-first-in-the-afc

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Wednesday Injury Report: 2 Starters Return to Practice

The Colts are healing up from some recent injuries, for on Wednesday news broke of that starting slot receiver Josh Downs and backup Wide Receiver and Special Teams gunner/returner Ashton Dulin would practice after their 1 game absence versus the Chargers. However that wasn’t the only good news on the injury front, as potential starting Cornerback Jaylon Jones returned to practice as well for the first time in months.

Colts Shane Steichen: Josh Downs (concussion) will practice today. Opening 21-day window for CB Jaylon Jones (hamstring). Ashton Dulin (chest) will practice.

— Mike Chappell (@mchappell51) October 22, 2025

Jones was competing with rookie Justin Walley for the starting outside Cornerback job opposite of Charvarius Ward, but has dealt with a hamstring injury since the preseason, and now has a 3 week window opened to return to the active roster. The 2023-2024 could step in as a starter once again when he is healthy, although new Corner Mekhi Blackmon has impressed in new Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo’s scheme since the Colts traded for him in the preseason.

wednesday's practice report for #TENvsIND. pic.twitter.com/ZkCtQa42Nd

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 22, 2025

Dulin was able to practice in full, a good sign for his availability for Sunday’s game. Downs is still in the concussion protocol and had a limited practice, as did Jones as the Colts ease him in off of his hamstring injury. Jones was competing with rookie Justin Walley for the starting outside Cornerback job opposite of Charvarius Ward, but Backup Running Back Tyler Goodson also practiced fully.

Kenny Moore II didn’t suit up today after his 1st game back from an Achilles/calf injury. His status will be one to monitor throughout the week. Defensive Ends Samson Ebukam and Tyquan Lewis didn’t participate either following their Week 7 midgame injuries. Ebukam is week-to-week with his MCL injury, so the Colts might have a multi-week absence without their 2nd best pass rushing Defensive End. Tyquan Lewis is day-to-day with his groin injury.

There are still 3 more players the Colts are waiting to return from IR this season:

• Nickel Cornerback Mike Hilton: eligible to return from IR in Week 10 (vs Falcons)
• Cornerback Charvarius Ward: eligible to return from IR in Week 11 (BYE)
• Quarterback Anthony Richardson: Eligible to Return from IR in Week 11 (BYE)

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...y-injury-report-2-starters-return-to-practice

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Laiatu Latu is an elite Pass Rusher… he just needs sacks

Laiatu Latu may have been overshadowed as a rookie by fellow first round pass rusher Jared Verse, but in Year 2 Latu has broken out in a big way. A refined technician with a deep bag of moves and counters, Latu continued to sharpen his craft this past offseason, and the results speak for themselves. The sophomore leap Latu has taken in his first year in Lou Anarumo’s scheme has been nothing short of spectacular.

• Pressure Rate: 10.1% —> 17.9%
• Pass Rush Win Rate: 14% —> 22.6%
• Run Stop Percentage: 7.2% —> 11.6%
• Interceptions: 0 —> 2

#NFL Edge: Best Pass-Rush Win % (PFF)

30.3%- Will Anderson Jr
27.7%- Micah Parsons
27.0%- Myles Garrett
25.3%- Danielle Hunter
25.2%- Aidan Hutchinson
22.6%- Trey Hendrickson
22.6%- Laiatu Latu
20.6%- Jared Verse

*100+ Pass-Rush Snaps*

— Daniel Griffis (@DanDGriffis) October 22, 2025

Per PFF Grades, Latu Ranks amongst 124 Edge Defenders 17th in Run Defense, 20th in Pass Rush, and 1st in Coverage for an Overall grade of 89.9, 7th in the NFL. Anarumo has been able to use him as a chess piece, moving around the defensive alignment to play not just Defensive End, but Linebacker and even attack inside at Defensive Tackle on occasion. He can stop the run, he can drop back and make timely plays in coverage, but most importantly, Latu can rush the passer at an elite level.

He has heated up in recent weeks, ranking 4th in the NFL in Pressures since returning from injury to move 4th on the season in Pressure Rate (behind only Nik Bonitto, Jonathan Cooper, and Will Anderson Jr.).

Laiatu Latu had a career-best 9 pressures yesterday vs. the Rams.

An elite get-off is not needed when you are this refined as a pass rusher.

Latu has the highest career college win rate on true pass sets (36%) of the 306 drafted NFL EDGEs we have charted since 2015. https://t.co/52vnI4UBMV

— Gridiron Grading (@GridironGrading) September 29, 2025

But dear reader, there is one thing Latu lacks to set his reputation as an elite pass rusher in the NFL in stone…

Sacks.

The all mighty stat named by the LA Rams Fearsome Foursome member Deacon Jones. The name came from Jones equating hitting a Quarterback behind the Line to sacking a city (as well as “if “you put all the offensive players in one bag and I just take a baseball bat and beat on the bag”). If sacks are like sieges, then Laiatu Latu’s 2025 season thus far has been the Siege of Vienna in 1683… so close to a full success but at the last possible moment isn’t finished in sacking,

Latu is always this close! pic.twitter.com/BVyk42rB3m

— HOOYOAN (@Hooyoan81) October 20, 2025

Latu was so close here#Colts#ForTheShoe#Chargers#INDvsLAC pic.twitter.com/SN0wtP6AIe

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) October 19, 2025

Yes those are two separate plays from just this past week. Latu was able to record a sack versus the Chargers, but it was only his 2nd of the season. Ironically both sacks came in SoFi Stadium against both LA teams, so he has yet to sack a QB outside of Inglewood this season.

Latu wins very consistently, but the issue is two-fold:

1. Latu wins at an average speed, 3.06 seconds Time To Pressure ranks 52nd out of 97 Defensive Linemen, with 0 Quick Pressures (under 2.5 seconds) per Next Gen Stats
2. Latu needs to tackle better, with 2 missed tackles on sack attempts this season.

If Latu can be a split second quicker in beating his man and wrap up QBs cleanly, his sack numbers will skyrocket. But with his top echelon pressure rate, it is only a matter time before Latu’s breakout results in the sacks he craves.

The Colts have faced 3 of the NFL’s top 10 Offensive Lines per PFF so far this season (Broncos 2nd, Rams 8th, Cardinals 10th), and Laiatu Latu’s remaining schedule of Offensive Lines look very favorable:

• Titans: 23rd
• Steelers: 14th
• Falcons: 20th
• Chiefs: 4th
• Texans: 29th
• Jaguars: 21st
• Seahawks: 18th
• 49ers: 11th
• Jaguars again: 21st
• Texans again: 29th

Outside of the Chiefs and 49ers games, Laiatu Latu stands a very good chance of adding plenty of sacks the rest of the season. The young former Bruin could be on the precipice of true dominance, the likes of which the Colts have not seen since the days of Freeney and Mathis.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116669/laiatu-latu-is-an-elite-pass-rusher-he-just-needs-sacks

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Understanding the Disconnect with Colts Pass Rush Stats

Indianapolis, IN — The Indianapolis Colts‘ defense has brought opposing quarterbacks down at a top-10 rate in the NFL. However, nuance is needed to understand the shortcomings.

Indy’s pass rush is filling up the box score statistically, but it still feels like they’re lucking into opportunities at times. Against Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 7, the Colts’ defense pressured Shane Steichen’s first quarterback as an offensive coordinator a league-high (and team season-high) 57.4% of the time, sacking him thrice. Just three other NFL teams were able to total a pressure rate of 50% or higher during Week 7. They are fresh off their single-best performance of the season, so how is there so much room for improvement?

For starters, opportunity. The Colts are T-12th in points allowed (19.4 PPG) this season, but are 25th in offensive plays against. Teams are regularly moving the ball against Lou Anarumo’s Colts defense, though opportunistic play has resulted in keeping them afloat. Not only has such a heads-up mindset prepared them to bend-don’t-break, but it’s turned in the T-3rd best turnover rate (11 takeaways) across the NFL. This Colts defense is almost allowing the offense to get comfortable before appropriately pouncing when the time is right. Also, the Colts’ offense is playing so lights out that they’re scoring early and often, therefore, more opportunities for the defense.

Since the mainstream statistics seem to brush this issue off as if it’ll sort itself out, the more niche ones (such as total plays against) help paint a clearer picture. For example, the Colts’ pass rush is up to the 3rd-highest pressure rate leaguewide (39.4%) and is now 7th in sacks with 19, according to Next Gen Stats. These two stats alone suggest that Indy has nothing to worry about, but a deeper dive hints otherwise.

To further contextualize the disconnect, the Colts are only 19th in sacks per pass attempt. Additionally, opposing quarterbacks have the 7th-most time to throw per attempt (2.86 seconds) while Indy’s pass rush is 20th in get-off rate (0.86 seconds). Long story short, the Colts need more overall pressure. More specifically, they need quicker wins to combat their relatively slow rush attempts, so finishing sacks is less of a sigh of relief and more of an expectation moving forward.

Indy’s pass rush does not need to improve in these areas so long as its defense continues making timely, opportunistic plays on the ball, but it’s risky to merely hope it develops as such. As the saying goes, even a blind squirrel finds a nut every once in a while, and although this pass rush doesn’t warrant that comparison, soon they might if sustainability isn’t found.

This article is more so to try and contextualize the disconnect among Colts fans and analysts alike who notice the high pass rush numbers, but fail to see that materialize on the field. There are some proven edge rushers leaguewide who’d theoretically fit what the Colts are looking for in a consistent, quick-winning pass rusher — in particular, Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson and Dolphins DE Jaelan Phillips — therefore, a move can be made to remedy the shortcomings. This could very well be a moot point as long as the offense continues to dominate and the defense continues playing its newly established brand of opportunistic football, but it’s worth noting how the league-leading statistics differentiate from the eye test.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116707/understanding-the-disconnect-with-colts-pass-rush-stats

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Daniel Jones is cashing in on his great play

The Colts’ offense isn’t just the NFL’s best — it’s on a historic pace, averaging more points per drive than any team since 2000.

Through seven weeks, the Colts are the most efficient offense by points per drive this century pic.twitter.com/4oyLckuShS

— Anthony Dabbundo (@AnthonyDabbundo) October 20, 2025

While the additions of Tyler Warren and a fully healthy Jonathan Taylor have made a huge difference, the biggest reason for the Colts’ offensive success has been Daniel Jones and his remarkable efficiency.

Jones is currently playing on a one-year, $14 million deal. The question now is: what will the Colts have to pay him after the season if he maintains this level of play?

To break down a potential contract, three factors need to be analyzed:

1. The quality of his current play
2. Quarterbacks of similar caliber (before signing their deals) and their salaries
3. His overall importance to the team

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Quality of Play

By all accounts, Daniel Jones has been a top 8 quarterback in the NFL this season. He ranks:

• 1st in EPA/play
• 1st in success rate (plays where the EPA is above 0)
• 5th in EPA+CPOE composite
• 8th in passer rating
• 6th in completion percentage
• 4th in yards per attempt
• Tied for 3rd in 40+ yard pass plays

He has been tremendously efficient and clean with his passes and the Colts have the best offense in the NFL.

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Importance to the Team

It’s not difficult to measure Daniel Jones’ impact on the Colts. Last season, with Joe Flacco and Anthony Richardson splitting starts, Indianapolis averaged 22 points per game. Through seven games this year, they’re averaging 33. The addition of Tyler Warren has certainly helped, but it’s clear that Jones has been the driving force behind the offense’s 50% scoring jump. The last time the Colts had a quarterback rank in the top 10 across major passing categories was 2018 — Andrew Luck’s final full season.

Jones and Shane Steichen have developed a clear chemistry. The offense is built around Jones’ strengths — play action, quick rhythm, and timing — and he’s executing it flawlessly. His consistency has also opened up the run game, allowing Jonathan Taylor to return to MVP-caliber form behind a far more balanced attack.

A good comparison might be Baker Mayfield’s breakout year in Tampa Bay. Mayfield played at a high level, took a team-friendly deal, and gave the Buccaneers roster flexibility. If Jones were to do the same — which, adjusted for inflation, would be roughly three years and $40 million per season — he’d be celebrated in Indianapolis. It’s not impossible, but it’s rare in today’s NFL, where most quarterbacks push for top-of-market deals.

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Comparable Quarterbacks

While many quarterback contracts haven’t lived up to expectations, it’s worth noting that when the players listed below signed their deals, they were performing at a level comparable to Daniel Jones.

The three most relevant long-term contract comparisons for Jones’ next contract are:

• Tua Tagovailoa: 4 years, $213.4 million ($53.1M per year), $167.1M guaranteed
• Brock Purdy: 5 years, $263 million ($53M per year), $182.5M guaranteed
• Trevor Lawrence: 5 years, $275 million ($55M per year), $200M guaranteed

Some may also bring up Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, though Darnold’s situation is far less applicable. Darnold was effectively replaced in Minnesota by J.J. McCarthy, signed elsewhere on a short-term deal with an opt-out after two seasons, and was coming off a rough finish that deflated his value.

Mayfield, however, is a fairer comp. He produced one strong season in Tampa Bay — albeit not quite at Jones’ level — and took a team-friendly contract to stay. Adjusted for today’s market, that type of deal would equate to roughly three years at $40 million per season, a bargain by current standards. If Jones were willing to sign something similar, he’d be hailed as a hero in Indianapolis. Still, that kind of discount is rare in today’s NFL, where most quarterbacks push to maximize every dollar of their value.

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Projected Contract

There’s 3 different contracts to examine. There’s the longterm, expensive one that locks him in for multiple years. There’s a shorter term Baker Mayfield or Sam Darnold style deal. Then finally, there’s the franchise tag.

Contract 1: 5 years, $280,000,000 ($56M per year) with $175,000,000 guaranteed

Contract 2: 3 years, $130,000,000 ($43.3 per year) with $60,000,000 guaranteed

Contract 3: 1 year, $46,073,000 fully guaranteed (projected Franchise Tag)

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Which contract to take?

To me, there are two realistic paths, depending on how negotiations unfold. If Daniel Jones pushes for a long-term deal similar to those signed by Tua Tagovailoa, Trevor Lawrence, or Brock Purdy, the Colts should decline and instead apply the franchise tag, projected at about $46 million. If Jones is open to a shorter-term agreement, Indianapolis should move quickly — something in the three-year range with an opt-out after year two, similar to Sam Darnold’s deal, would make perfect sense.

As impressive as Jones has been, committing to a four- or five-year contract right now would simply be too risky. Still, the team should already be preparing for a cap hit in the low-to-mid $40 million range for next season. With several other contracts already backloaded, it wouldn’t be wise to use the same structure for Jones — especially if they opt for a three-year deal.

Jones has earned himself a massive raise — but if the Colts stay smart with their structure, both sides can win.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116603/daniel-jones-is-cashing-in-on-his-great-play

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Players to Watch: Week 8 vs. Titans

Laiatu Latu​

Latu has been the Colts’ best pass-rusher this season, which is no surprise after a rookie year where he showed flashes. The Titans have two good tackles, but are struggling in pass-protection, as they struggle in all offensive areas. Keeping the edges contained and bringing in quick pressure to rookie quarterback Cam Ward will be important in never allowing the Titans to get into any sort of rythm, and finish the game fast. Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. has been serviceable this season, the matchup to exploit lays on the right side where JC Latham has struggled with injuries and has been mediocre when on the field.

Jonathan Taylor​

Yeah, yeah, I get it! Thank you Captain Obvious! Well of course JT is worth keeping an eye out every single game, but with the way the Colts’ offensive line has been playing, with how bad the Titans’ front-seven is defending the run, and just the way that JT is running the football, there might be some records broken here. There are no wasted movements in his game, no rush at all to hit the hole, no player he cannot shake, reaching top speed in an instant. I don’t think I have seen more dominance from a Colts’ skill position player in my life.

Johnathan Edwards / Mekhi Blackmon​

The Titans’ wide receiver group as of right now is easily the least talented in the NFL. I am really cautious with my words and rarely am as absolutist as I am here, I am that confident in my statement. Elic Ayomanor is an intriguing rookie, and his chemistry with Ward is developing nicely, but as of right now, Ayomanor caught just 19 of his 39 targets, for 225 yards and two touchdowns. Other than him, and with Calvin Ridley most likely out for the game, the Titans will play Chimere Dike and Van Jefferson at receiver. This is the perfect chance for either Edwards or Blackmon to have a breakout game and establish themselves as the #4 cornerback on the team, maintaining their playing time until both Charvarius Ward and Jaylon Jones return from their injuries.

Michael Badgley​

Either this week or the next there are going to be two very coveted kickers potentially available to sing, perhaps even three, as Lukas Havrisik (Packers), Matt Prater (Bills), and Jake Moody (Bears) could be released after their respective starters return from injuries. Michael Badgley came in for the injured Spencer Shrader, and he missed an extra point attempt against the Chargers. If Badgley struggles then the Colts will probably be looking at better options available on the market, and with a relatively easy game I don’t believe that head-coach Shane Steichen will be as aggressive as he was against the Chargers, leading to plenty of opportunities for Badgley.

Cedric Gray, linebacker (Titans)​

Gray has been the second best defensive player for the Titans, and their most pleasant surprise this season by far. He is an excellent tackler, with 15 stops already defending the run, above-average in coverage, and just 22-years old. The Titans have found their starting linebacker for the next decade, and it will be entertaining watching him go up against Jonathan Taylor in the hole, hopefully several times on Sunday.

Jeffery Simmons, defensive tackle (Titans)​

Simmons is by far and without a shadow of a doubt the best player that the Titans have on their team. He is good enough to be able to wreck games on his own, and is always the biggest worry when the Colts are playing the Titans. He will most likely be out for Sunday with a hamstring injury, which is amazing news for the Colts’ interior offensive line who will not have to deal all game with such a dominant player. I doubt he is available, but I would trade two 1sts and even more for him in a heartbeat.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116706/colts-players-to-watch-week-8-vs-titans

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey Results Week 7

Indianapolis Colts fans confidence is nearly sky high for the AFC’s leading team, who many expected to be a bottom feeder entering the 2025 campaign. There’s good reason too as the Colts are currently 6-1.

Specifically, 99% of Colts fans are now confident that the team is headed in the right direction, which it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know is a nearly pristine percentage.

In particular, the Colts now have a solidifying veteran presence at starting quarterback, which coupled with the big rookie addition at tight end, has paid dividends. Under new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, the Colts defense has also improved dramatically—having its own key additions in the Colts secondary this past offseason.

Colts head coach Shane Steichen has also been on a heater with his play-calling offensively, seemingly in complete synch with his quarterback, star running back Jonathan Taylor, and an Indy offensive line that is manhandling its opponents up front. The Colts are one of the most prolific offenses in league history right now.

As such, 98% of Colts fans believe they’ll do what they haven’t done since 2014, which is finally win the AFC South again.

Once the toast of the division, the Colts have the longest division title drought of any of their AFC South rivals, and each of their rivals has won the division at least twice since the Colts last won it over a decade ago.

What does that mean for hoisting an elusive Lombardi Trophy?

Well, that same optimism isn’t quite as high, as only 37% of Colts fans believe that Indianapolis will become World Champions again, which they haven’t done since 2006. Still, even having that percentage that high is shocking, given that many Colts fans realistically felt this was closer to a Top 5 draft pick than serious contender.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116792/colts-reacts-survey-results-week-7