The Indianapolis Colts didn’t accomplish their goal of returning to the playoffs in 2019, but there were some bright spots along the way of a polarizing campaign.
While it was disappointing to see so many injuries befall the wide receiver room, one of the bright spots throughout the 2019 season was the emergence of Zach Pascal, who had a career season.
In the eyes of Pro Football Focus, Pascal was the Colts’ most improved player for the season.
A season-ending injury to Devin Funchess in Week 1 and lingering injuries to players like T.Y. Hilton and Parris Campbell left the Colts thin at wide receiver last season. That meant increased opportunity for Pascal, and he took advantage of that opportunity with 41 receptions for 607 yards and five touchdowns. Compared to a season ago when Pascal averaged just 9.7 yards per reception with a receiving grade of 56.8, his 2019 results of 14.8 yards per reception with a receiving grade of 71.4 are certainly a step in the right direction. The Colts will be looking to add a wide receiver this offseason, but Pascal should have done enough last season to ensure that he is in their plans moving forward.
The Colts never got to see what Funchess truly brought to the table. Hilton dealt with his second consecutive season of injuries while Campbell had a bizarre rookie campaign.
Pascal took over the WR1 role at times. He was fourth on the team in receptions (41) while leading the offense in receiving yards (607) and tied for the lead with five receiving touchdowns. His 14.8 yards per reception mark was also the second-highest on the team.
Adding to the wide receiver room is a necessity this offseason, but Pascal proved he has a role in the offense regardless of the moves the front office makes.