When making a decision between retirement and the continuation of a career in the NFL, there are several factors a player must consider. For Indianapolis Colts left tackle Anthony Castonzo, the case was no different earlier in the offseason.
Since the season ended for the Colts in January, Castonzo took some time to reflect and think about his future moves. He tested his body in training, spent some time with his family and contemplated whether he wanted to keep playing. He also thought of his brother on the left side of the offensive line—All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson.
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Of course it isn’t the main reason, but continuing to suit up alongside the perennial All-Pro is one of the reasons Castonzo is returning on a two-year deal.
“I’d be remiss to say that the opportunity to play next to Quenton Nelson isn’t part of the reason why I’d love to continue playing because it really is a lot of fun,” Castonzo told reporters Tuesday. “Playing with the whole group is fun and I think we want to stay together as long as possible.”
The Colts have the type of continuity that many teams dream of seeing on the field. The same five players started all 16 games during the 2019 season with all of them playing over 1,000 snaps during the campaign.
Nelson continues to make good on the investment the Colts made in him during the 2018 NFL draft, using the No. 6 overall pick to secure the Notre Dame product. Some argued against the value of taking a guard that early, but he’s become arguably the best interior offensive lineman in the entire league.
Nelson has certainly made Castonzo better and vice-versa. The left side duo is arguably the best in the NFL when it comes to the all-encompassing work of the offensive line.
Rarely do teams get the type of continuity the Colts will with their offensive line. The starting unit is exactly the same as it stands to start the new league year and while some additions might be made during the draft, it isn’t a guarantee the newcomers will shake up the starting roles.
“I mean, very rarely do you get to keep that continuity that we’ve had on the offensive line with five guys who can all play as well as we can,” Castonzo said. “I mean, it’s exciting. I’m excited about the group.”
The Colts offensive line was one of the best units in the NFL. Castonzo is their veteran leader but one of the biggest reasons he is coming back is because of one of the younger players on the line.
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