In the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, with the 59th overall pick, the Indianapolis Colts selected wide receiver Parris Campbell out of Ohio State. There was excitement for him to be joining the team as the Colts needed an infusion of talent at the position as they looked to overcome the surprising retirement of Andrew Luck.
Unfortunately for Campbell, things have not gone according to plan yet in his career. He has battled a multitude of injuries, playing in only 15 games the first three seasons of his career. The seven that he appeared in as a rookie are the most thus far in a single season.
Rehab from injuries is an arduous process. It tested Campbell, as he contemplated retiring in his second season while recovering from ligament damage in his knee. He was feeling good before a foot injury derailed his 2021 campaign.
Finally healthy throughout this offseason, Campbell has a chance to earn a big role in the passing game. Things are wide open behind Michael Pittman Jr. on the pecking order for targets and he is ready to make an impact on the field.
Changes have been made when it comes to his mental approach to playing and he is physically ready to get things going. He spoke to Bob Kravitz of The Athletic, as he is ready for a breakout season.
“My career thus far hasn’t been what I’ve wanted it to be,” Campbell said, via Bob Kravitz of TheAthletic.com. “That’s about to change. . . . In the past, I don’t want to say I took things for granted or didn’t appreciate it, but like now, I appreciate it and the abilities I’ve been blessed with that much more. I had the game taken away from me three straight years. I had to sit at home. Going through all of this has changed my mindset. I’ve been blessed to rehab from some serious injuries that some guys don’t come back from. The opportunity I have now, it’s everything. It’s everything.”
2022 is likely a make-or-break season for Parris Campbell. He has a great opportunity to get his career on track with veteran Matt Ryan running the Colts offense this season. Talent is certainly not the issue when it comes to him, as he just has to find a way to stay healthy and available.
