The Indianapolis Colts are set to have a number of players hit the free-agent market during the month of March, and wide receiver Parris Campbell is one of the bigger names on that list.
While the passing offense for the Colts was among the worst in the NFL by several metrics, Campbell finally stayed healthy enough for us to see what a full season is like with him in the offense.
The results were solid as Campbell recorded career-highs in receptions (63) and receiving yards (623) while adding three touchdowns.
Without much in the room behind Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce, Pro Football Focus named Campbell as a free agent the Colts can’t afford to lose.
“Linebacker Bobby Okereke makes a lot of sense here, as well, but the Colts have a ton invested in Shaquille Leonard at the position already. On offense, Michael Pittman Jr. could join the $20 million-plus per year club this offseason as an early extension candidate, which could make a cheaper pure slot receiving option a smart piece to keep around.
Campbell’s production in 2022 outpaced his three-year cumulative totals from 2019-21 in nearly every statistical category now that he was finally healthy, with nine games of at least 40 receiving yards on the year. A one-year flier where Campbell can take yet another step — a decent bet if the Colts’ offense doesn’t once again rank dead last in EPA per dropback — makes sense for all parties.”
Campbell proved he can be an asset in the passing game, especially working from the slot as a quick option. With Pittman Jr. and Pierce on the outside, the Colts had a solid trio with Campbell also working in the slot.
However, the struggles of the offensive line and quarterback positions severely limited the production of the entire unit.
The Colts aren’t walking into this offseason with a boatload of salary-cap space. There are a few moves they can make to free up a lot of money but as it stands right now, we shouldn’t expect them to change their ways and be extremely active in the market.
Re-signing Campbell to a one-year deal isn’t a bad idea after what he showed in 2022. If he can stay healthy and the Colts can find their quarterback of the future, there is plenty of upside in bringing Campbell back.
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