The Indianapolis Colts concluded the 2023 season 9-8. For a squad anticipated to win six games, they far exceeded expectations and nearly won the division.
The aim is that Indianapolis will improve from last season and make a playoff push in 2024.
To accomplish this goal, three players must improve on their poor 2023 performance and stand up for the Indianapolis Colts.
The Colts selected Kwity Paye in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
After three years in the league, Paye has 18.5 sacks, 77 quarterback pressures, and 80 solo tackles. Paye’s hopes are that he will become a productive pass rusher.
Unfortunately, he has not played at that level since being drafted.
The good news for Paye is that his numbers and output have improved with each season.
The only thing left to see is whether Paye can erupt and accumulate 10 or more sacks per season.
Paye will reach the end of his rookie contract in 2024.
If he wants an extension, the Indianapolis Colts will want him to improve faster than he has thus far.
Robert Mathis was the Colts’ last prolific pass rusher, and he retired in 2016.
This is not to argue that Paye must be the next Mathis, but having fewer than 10 sacks per season for three years is not the type of production the Colts require.
Alec Pierce, a second-year wide receiver, underwhelmed in 2023 season.
Pierce was expected to serve as a complement to Michael Pittman Jr. Unfortunately, he did not achieve this and battled with productivity.
Pierce finished with 32 receptions on 65 targets.
However, it may be argued that his disappointing season was due to Gardner Minshew at quarterback.
Anthony Richardson will be back healthy for the squad in 2024, giving Pierce the opportunity to display his big-play abilities as a prolific down-the-field passer.
Regardless of whether the Colts sign a big-name free agent at wide receiver, Pierce will be expected to step up.
He possesses all of the characteristics of a down-the-field threat and is ready for a breakout.
Rodney Thomas entered the league as a gem that the Colts snagged in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
In his debut season, he recorded four interceptions, four pass breakups, 33 solo stops, and only 10 receptions allowed.
Thomas’ stats dropped significantly as he entered his second season as a starter.
He was also benched in a game with significant playoff implications against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The secondary had several challenges in 2023, and having a promising young safety step back exacerbated the situation.
Thomas will get another chance to be a starting safety in 2024.
However, he needs improve to become the player the Indianapolis Colts had in 2022.
