While AD Mitchell and Alec Pierce battle for playing time this summer, not to be forgotten about at the receiver position for the Colts is rookie Anthony Gould.
During the team’s first joint practice with the Arizona Cardinals on Wednesday, Gould, who ran a 4.39 during the pre-draft process, scored a 50-plus yard touchdown on a pass from Anthony Richardson during the 7-on-7 period, according to Kevin Bowen of 107.5 The Fan.
And while the Colts have been without Josh Downs who is sidelined with an ankle injury, Gould has gotten more opportunities to work with the first-team offense as the slot receiver.
“He’s been awesome,” said Shane Steichen after practice. “He made some big-time plays today, but getting in as a rookie, learning the system. He’s developing. He’s making plays, and that’s what you want to see.”
This big play that Gould was able to generate on Wednesday wasn’t his first of training camp. Throughout the last few weeks, Gould has emerged as a downfield threat on the practice field.
Even with Gould’s big play ability, carving out a role this season–at least as a deep threat–could still be a challenge. For one, AD Mitchell and Alec Pierce can provide that element.
On top of that, nearly 96 percent of the Colts’ snaps in 2023 came with three or fewer receivers on the field, according to Sumer Sports.
However, where Gould could potentially carve out a niche role is as a target on short-area throws or getting the ball on designed touches in space where his speed and YAC abilities can take over. During Gould’s final two seasons at Oregon State, he would average 16.5 yards per catch.
Along with the juice Gould has been able to provide on offense in practice, he’s doing the same on special teams as a return man as well.
“You want to see growth every day from young players,” added Steichen, “and that’s what he’s been doing.”