The Indianapolis Colts used one of their four second-round picks in the 2019 draft on wide receiver Parris Campbell, hoping he would become an instant contributor on the offense.
However, a litany of injuries prevented that from happening. From a nagging hamstring injury to a core muscle injury, a fractured hand and a broken foot, Campbell’s rookie season was defined by injury.
But even so, there is still hope for the speedy Ohio State product. He was listed as a potential breakout player in 2020 by Bleacher Report.
Even as a gadget player and an after-the-catch guy, Campbell should have had an immediate impact for the Colts as a rookie.
Unfortunately, the injury bug bit Campbell hard, and he only appeared in seven games with three starts. He never seemed to develop chemistry with quarterback Jacoby Brissett, which made him an afterthought in Indianapolis’ run-oriented offense. Campbell finished his rookie season with 18 catches for 127 yards and a touchdown.
There’s a chance that Campbell will have to develop chemistry with a different quarterback moving forward, as the Colts are not committed to Brissett over the long term.
“The jury is still out,” general manager Chris Ballard said, per ESPN’s Mike Wells.
Regardless of who is chosen as the starter, Campbell should have a full offseason to create a rapport. With a little trust and a lot of experience gained, Campbell could become a Tyreek Hill-type game-breaker.
Campbell’s rookie season was parallel to the Colts offense as a whole. Injuries and a lack of production were the epitome of the campaign.
The Colts are likely to add more to the wide receiver room this offseason. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see them add players from both free agency and the 2020 draft.
Even so, Campbell should be in line to compete for a starting role. His skill set is still perfectly matched up for what the Colts want to do on offense. With the game featuring speed more and more each season, Campbell has a chance to make a difference.
Campbell should be ready to go for the offseason workouts even after finishing the season with a broken foot. It’s a big season for the second-year wideout, who will hopefully give the Colts some return on their second-round investment.