The Indianapolis Colts surprised a lot of people with their performance in the 2023 season. While it didn’t result in a playoff appearance, going 9-8 despite having inexperience and injuries at key spots is quite an achievement.
The Colts had a first-time head coach in Shane Steichen and were pairing him with a rookie quarterback in Anthony Richard. The No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft had his season cut short by a shoulder injury in Week 5, thrusting Gardner Minshew into the starting lineup.
In addition to not having Richardson, the team was without star running back Jonathan Taylor for seven games. They didn’t let that slow them down, as the Colts finished 10th in points scored and 15th in yards gained on the season.
NFL News & Rumors: Mike Evans, 2024 NFL Free Agency, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Indianapolis Colts Updates
They are certainly on the right track in Indianapolis on the offensive side of the ball, but the job is not yet done upgrading the roster. A former NFL executive who spoke to NFL Analysis Network believes they will make a splash in free agency to continue adding pieces around Richardson on offense.
“The Colts are looking to be aggressive this offseason. They want to surround Anthony Richardson with as much talent as possible. In addition to re-signing Michael Pittman Jr., I’ve heard they’re looking into signing Mike Evans,” said the former NFL executive.
Michael Pittman Jr. proved yet again that he is capable of being a No. 1 option in an offense. He is preparing for free agency off a career year, catching 109 passes for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns.
2023 third-round pick Josh Downs made an immediate impact, finishing second on the team with 68 receptions for 771 yards and two touchdowns. But, 2022 second-round pick Alec Pierce left a lot to be desired, which could play into the executive predicting they will make a run at Mike Evans.
NFL News & Rumors: Mike Evans, 2024 NFL Free Agency, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Indianapolis Colts Updates
Evans is as steady and consistent as they come. He has surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in all 10 of his seasons in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While there is some risk to bringing him in, as he will be 31 when the 2024 season kicks off, he won’t be looked at as a savior and relied upon solely in Indianapolis.
He can be an impact addition but would have help, making his age less concerning. A trio of Pittman, Evans and Downs working out of the slot would be one of the best in the NFL, giving Richardson all he needs to develop into the star he has the potential to be.
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