While the NFL is certainly a “what have you done for me lately” type of league, there is always an eye on the future. The Indianapolis Colts are the same way—a team that is always looking at the big picture.
With training camp expected to start on July 28, much of the discussions are about the 2020 season. But ESPN also took a look at the future and ranked each team based on how their outlook currently stands years down the road.
The Colts came in at No. 10 in the future power rankings.
Why they’re here: The Colts check so many of the boxes for a team that is doing things the right way: GM Chris Ballard is exceptional, drafts well, is opportunistic in free agency and finds developmental players. Coach Frank Reich and his staff make players better and they always play at maximum effort; the question for Indy is at quarterback, as Philip Rivers looks to bounce back after 20 interceptions with the Chargers last year, and is signed to a one-year deal. — Yates
Biggest worry: I saw signs of serious decline in Rivers’ play a year ago. The Colts think that was an anomaly. This roster is getting stronger and it added some very nice pieces through the draft, but if Rivers can’t get it going and play at a higher level again, the Colts will be looking for another QB sooner rather than later. — Riddick
Looking ahead: Surround DeForest Buckner with more pass-rush help up front. Justin Houston outplayed expectations with 11 sacks last year, but at age 31 might not hold up. The Colts have pumped out productive drafts for roster balance. Adding to the front might be the next step. — Fowler
Top stat to know: Indianapolis is a soft landing spot for Rivers. Not only is he playing behind the unit that ranked third in pass block win rate last season, but he’s on the team with the easiest strength of schedule in the league, per FPI. That’s all good for 2020, but this team’s future has more questions beyond then. — Walder.
The quarterback position has a lot to do with the rankings but so does the roster as a whole. The Colts were ranked 10th in overall roster but 26th at quarterback. The coaching staff was ranked 11th while the draft and front office portions of the grading scale saw the Colts ranked second and third, respectively.
The Colts are in good hands when it comes to the future. They have a stable front office, a strong coaching staff and viable depth throughout the roster.
The only thing truly missing is the future at the quarterback position, which is a question mark entering the 2020 season.