I never thought it would be so simple, but, I found a way. I found a way.
When Indianapolis Colts principal owner Carly Irsay-Gordon stood before the team early in training camp, her message wasn’t complicated. Find a way.
The phrase couldn’t escape her mind as she was speaking to the team. Find a way to make the roster. Find a way to make the play when it matters most. Find a way to fly through the turbulence, through adversity. Ultimately, the goal is to find a way back to the playoffs.
Three practices into training camp at Grand Park, that mantra continues to echo across thre practice field as players try to climb their way up the depth chart. For some veterans, finding a way means stepping into a larger role. For young players and rookies, it means simply proving they belong. Friday’s practice featured prime examples of both.
Wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine is looking to carve out a significant role after signing with Indianapolis in March. With the Colts trading away Michael Pittman Jr. this offseason, the veteran receiver has been presented with an opportunity to earn the third starting spot. On Friday, Westbrook-Ikhine spent extensive time working with both the first- and second-team offense and rewarded all three quarterbacks who looked in his direction.
Westbrook’s moment came during the opening 11-on-11 team period as quarterback Daniel Jones held onto the ball a tad too long, but still trusted his new receiver and let it fly anyway. Westbrook noticed he was about to overrun where the throw was heading, so he rose up to elevate over the back of standout cornerback Justin Walley, stuck the landing and took off racing to the end zone.
It was exactly the kind of contested play that reflects Irsay-Gordon’s message. Find a way. Jones later connected with Westbrook-Ikhine on a comeback route and shorter completions throughout practice, while the veteran pass catcher also hauled in routes from Anthony Richardson Sr. and Riley Leonard during work with the second unit.
The competition to make their presence felt on the field extends beyond the receiver room. First-round draft pick C.J. Allen returned to practice after being activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, instantly stepping into the starting defensive unit alongside fellow rookie Bryce Boettcher. Rookie safety A.J. Haulcy continued earning snaps with the second-team defense while also receiving opportunities with the starters. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo mentioned the plan is to roll with certain guys on certain days, which is another indication that opportunities will continue to be given as camp progresses.
Richardson is trying to find his own path entering his fourth NFL season, now competing for the backup quarterback job with Leonard, Richardson delivered arguably the highlight of training camp on Friday, while leading the third-team offense. Richardson sold the play-action fake before he unleashed a missile down the far right sideline and receiver Sahmir Hagans never broke stride, collecting the pass in full sprint for a 50-yard touchdown that brought perhaps the largest roar of the week from the crowd gathered at Grand Park. The one thing Richardson is still able to showcase is his rocket of arm talent that has always made him dangerous.
Richardson did struggle with ball security, however, dropping two snaps and bobbling at least three others throughout practice. Two consecutive mishandled snaps ended the final team period, illustrating a lousy finish just moments after his electrifying play.
Running back Seth McGowan also continued turning heads in the first week of camp. All you hear from fans is whispering how shifty the back looks in practice. McGowan found daylight with the starting offense, showcasing quick feet in the backfield and sharp cuts that repeatedly created space. It should be noted that without pads, defenders naturally ease up before full contact, but McGowan’s burst and ability to make defenders miss have remained difficult to ignore through the first three practices.
Every repetition offers another opportunity to earn trust of your teammates, your coaches, and another chance to make a way on the field. The Colts wrap up the first week of training camp on Saturday, with practice starting at 4 p.m.
