Training camp is quickly approaching for the Indianapolis Colts. The team will hold its first practice on July 28, and with that, there is always a lot to keep our eyes on during this time of the year.
Positional battles for playing time, roster spots, and pecking order on the depth chart take center stage, but the established starters being able to hit the ground running can be important to early-season success.
Starting with the Colts‘ offense, here is what we’ll be keeping an eye on at each position group over the next month-plus of action.
Quarterbacks
- Daniel Jones said recently that he is “cleared to do everything.” So does that mean he will be a full-go from the jump? And when he is back in the 11-on-11 periods, is there any rust?
- Riley Leonard and Anthony Richardson will be competing for the backup quarterback role.
Running backs
- Can DJ Giddens or Seth McGowan give the Colts a reliable backup option behind Jonathan Taylor? Taylor will, of course, lead the way, but having a steady presence behind him could help take at least some of the workload off his shoulders.
Wide receiver
- Who emerges as WR3? Ashton Dulin appears to be the frontrunner for this role coming out of offseason programs. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Laquon Treadwell, and Deion Burks could also be in the mix. The Colts could also utilize a rotation here, with in-game situations and matchups dictating who is on the field.
- When does Alec Pierce return? Pierce is still rehabbing from offseason ankle surgery.
Tight end
- Tyler Warren in Year 2. As good as Warren’s rookie season was, oftentimes players make a big jump in Year 2 with the experience gained as rookies and having a full offseason to work on their craft being the catalysts behind that leap. Warren mentioned this offseason that maintaining separation within his routes was a point of emphasis this offseason.
- Can Will Mallory secure the final roster spot at tight end? Or does Sean McKeon make a roster push? The Colts could also choose to roster just three tight ends.
Offensive line
- How does Jalen Travis perform at right tackle? His ability to hit the ground running will be important.
- Matt Goncalves in Year 2 at guard. Offensive line coach Tony Sparano is very bullish on Goncalves and his ability to take a step forward this year.
- Offensive line depth chart. Will Dalton Tucker be the backup center? Who is the first tackle option off the bench?
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 10 things to watch for on offense during Colts training camp
