Training camp is underway for the Indianapolis Colts, with veterans and rookies reporting on Wednesday, July 24th, and the first practice taking place on Thursday.
With everyone back in the building, GM Chris Ballard would meet with reporters. Here are the highlights from that conversation. To watch the full interview, click here.
– Ballard begins by saying that he believes the Colts are a talented team, but there’s work to do. The intensity gets kicked up during training camp when the pads come on. He adds that there is a good mix of veterans and young players on the team.
– Medicals weren’t quite done when Ballard was meeting with reporters, but he did say that Chris Lammons will start on the PUP list following ankle surgery, adding that he’s a week or two away from being ready.
– Tyler Goodson had a toe injury, but Ballard wasn’t sure if he will start on the NFI or PUP lists.
– JuJu Brents had an ankle clean up right after OTAs, but should be cleared soon and may be limited to start.
– Genard Avery is “getting close.” Ballard doesn’t expect him to start on PUP. Braden Smith will get worked back slowly and Ashton Dulin should be “good to go.” Dulin may be a little limited to start.
– Ballard was asked about Ryan Kelly’s contract situation. Kelly told reporters that his representation approached the Colts about a new deal but were told that an early extension won’t be happening. Ballard says the team has proven they are loyal to their own players.
– Ballard says “I definitely think we’re going to be in the mix” when asked about the upcoming season.
– When it comes to positional battles, Ballard mentions the secondary first, which may not be worked out until into the season. The only givens right now are that Kenny Moore and Julian Blackmon will be starting. Ballard adds that Blackmon played “excellent” last year, and mentions Ronnie Harrison when discussing the safety position.
– Other battles include the backup Mike behind Zaire Franklin. The swing tackle along the offensive line is another, and then the backup running back role.
– Ballard doesn’t expect maintenance days during minicamp with Anthony Richardson. “I’m not expecting any limitations right now. None.”
– Ballard likes the football they’ve put around Richardson so he doesn’t have to carry them. They like what they saw from him last season but he’s got to prove it over the course of time.
– “Most likely,” says Ballard when asked if Richardson will play in the preseason.
– Ballard speaks highly of Richardson’s poise. Despite the lack of NFL snaps, you don’t see any panic.
– On the tight end position, Ballard says while they may not have a superstar at the position, they have a lot of talent who can handle different roles. “That’ll work itself out over time.” Adds that Shane Steichen will use 12 or 13 personnel if that’s what the gameplan calls for.
– “I thought he played really well the last two years,” said Ballard about EJ Speed. “I love EJ Speed,” added Ballard. “He loves everything about the process.”
– “He’s able to adapt to whatever the quarterback can do,” said Ballard about Steichen. He adds that the relationship between Steichen and Richardson is really strong. “He’s outstanding,” said Ballard about offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.
– “I do like our set of weapons,” said Ballard about the Colts’ receivers. “I think Downs is really good.” Ballard believes they have enough weapons at the position with Adonai Mitchell, Michael Pittman, and Alec Pierce, along with Downs.
– “Jonathan Taylor will have a big year,” said Ballard.
– “We like our young players,” said Ballard about the cornerbacks and safeties. “I’m not saying we won’t do something. We definitely could. But I want to see these young guys get after it and compete.”
– “I think we got a chance to be a really, really good offensive football team.” Ballard believes in that, in large part because of how talented they are upfront.