The Indianapolis Colts are hoping to return from their summer break on July 28 for training camp, barring any changes. We will be previewing the majority of the roster as the summer progresses.
Name: Parris Campbell
Position: WR
Height: 6-foot-0
Weight: 205
Age: 22
Free Agent Year: 2023
Background
A second-round pick with the Colts in 2019, Campbell had high hopes to be a major piece of the passing game during his rookie season. However, a myriad of injuries kept him from staying on the field. The Ohio State product truly went through a career’s worth of injuries in only a matter of months. He dealt with a calf injury, a sports hernia, a broken hand and broken foot, the final of which ended his season. Three of those injuries required surgery.
Campbell finished his rookie season with seven games played while recording 18 receptions for 127 yards and one touchdown. He also took four carries for 34 rushing yards.
Expected Role
As the Colts hope to get rookie Michael Pittman Jr. acclimated as the X-receiver in the offense and with T.Y. Hilton serving as the unit’s Z-receiver/flanker, Campbell will spend most of his time in the slot. Coming off of the injury-ravaged campaign, Campbell will be a part of the competition for the WR3 role on the depth chart. His biggest competition will be Zach Pascal.
2020 Outlook
Many have pegged Campbell as a potential breakout player in 2020. The chance is certainly there for him, especially if he can carve out his role early on as the slot receiver. Much of his target share numbers will correlate with running back Nyheim Hines. Both are expected to see a lot of work from the slot. Whoever gets more playing time there is most likely to be more productive in the passing game.
Campbell has the talent to be a strong asset for the Colts during his second season. He has game-breaking speed, reliable hands and working from the slot is better suited for his skill set. His new quarterback in Philip Rivers should find Campbell as a reliable target early on.
While there is a lot of optimism for Campbell to be the WR3, he has to earn it. Both Pascal and Hines will be there to take away snaps and targets from the speedy wideout so he must establish himself early on. Over everything, Campbell has to prove he can stay healthy.
Bottom Line
There is a ridiculously high ceiling for the career of Campbell. He can be a menace from the slot but he first must prove he can stay healthy. After that, he will have to prove himself worthy of a starting role in the wide receiver corps. While his production depends on his target share numbers, Campbell will be a valuable asset to the passing game regardless.