After making several moves this offseason throughout free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts are back to being considered favorites in the AFC South.
Not every single analyst feels this way, but the narrative surrounding Indy this offseason has been more optimistic after finishing the 2019 season at 7-9 and on the outside looking in when it came to the playoffs.
NFL.com’s Adam Rank is one of those analysts who are bullish on the Colts winning the division in 2020.
“Yes, Ballard is building a foundation for years to come with many of his moves, but you don’t bring in a veteran quarterback like Rivers and give up a first-round pick for Buckner if you’re not planning to make a run for the crown right now,” wrote Rank in his State of the Franchise piece. “The Colts should be considered the favorites to win the division.”
Chris Ballard did show that the Colts are taking more of a win-now approach with some of their moves this offseason. The Rivers signing and trade for Buckner are certainly examples. But the drafting of Michael Pittman Jr. and Jonathan Taylor also prove the Colts are looking for assets to make an immediate impact.
Speaking of Pittman Jr., Rank is extremely high on the USC product coming out of the gates hot for the Colts.
“Love this fit for the Colts, who were in desperate need of some receiving help. T.Y. Hilton is awesome when he’s healthy. Parris Campbell should be considered a breakout candidate in Year 2,” Rank wrote. “I love MPJ as a chain-mover who can get those tough yards. I believe he had the best hands of any receiver in the draft. And Rivers has thrived throwing to that type of receiver over the years: Vincent Jackson, Keenan Allen, Mike Williams. I expect MPJ to play that role.”
The Colts will need a lot of things to come together for a playoff run in 2020. But the moves they made this offseason should have them in the conversation to be favorites in the division.