Keep your eye on these guys in 2024.
by Michael Kaskey-Blomain
With the likes of Anthony Richardson, Jonathan Taylor and Michael Pittman Jr. on the roster, the Indianapolis Colts have no shortage of star power. But, not all important players are stars, and the Colts also have a plethora of key contributors who don’t receive too much national attention. But, just because they’re not popping up in headlines all over doesn’t mean they aren’t appreciated, especially by the fans in Indianapolis.
With that said, here’s a look at three underrated Colts players who could make a massive impact next season.
Trey Sermon, Running back
Heading into his second season with the Colts, Trey Sermon is likely in line for an increase in workload following the departure of Zack Moss, who signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency. Sermon is currently penciled in as the second back behind Jonathan Taylor on the depth chart, and that could be his role once the season starts.
Sermon had just 35 attempts for 160 yards last season playing behind both Taylor and Moss. Those numbers will likely increase in 2024. Taylor is the guy, but there will be plenty of plays when he’s not out on the field, so the opportunity should be there. Sermon just has to seize it.
Josh Downs, Wide receiver
Josh Downs had a very solid campaign as a rookie last season for the Colts. He played in all 17 games for the team and 68 receptions for 771 yards and two touchdowns, and he’s poised to improve upon those numbers during his sophomore season.
Downs will likely start the season as Indianapolis’ No. 2 receiver across from Michael Pittman Jr., and that should afford him ample opportunity to put up numbers. The experience that he gained last season should help, too. Plus, after being limited to just four games last season, quarterback Anthony Richardson is expected to be healthy for the upcoming campaign, and that could mean good news for the receiving corps, both in terms of statistics and the ability to develop some chemistry.
Alec Pierce, Wide receiver
Pierce is in a similar situation to Downs, except he’s entering his third season with the team instead of his second. Over the first two yers of his career, Pierce has established himself as a legitimate target, as he has hauled in 73 receptions for 1,107 yards and four touchdowns.
Like Downs, Pierce also could be in line for a productive season with the return of Richardson. The trio of Pittman Jr., Downs and Pierce looks pretty promising on paper, but it’s going to be up to them to go out there and execute. If Richardson is able to become the quarterback that the Colts hope they can be, don’t be surprised to see big seasons from both Downs and Pierce.
Originally posted on horseshoeheroes.com