Indianapolis Colts: 2023 Season Results: 3 Wins, 3 Losses
The Indianapolis Colts had a new quarterback, new head coach, and new outlook going into the 2023 season.
After a series of highs and lows, the franchise finished in a way that few had anticipated and with a lot of promise for the future. Although a lot more storylines could fit, this piece only includes six in total.
Keeping this in mind, let’s discuss the positives and negatives from Shane Steichen’s debut season.
The Positive: Rookies Help Indianapolis Colts Wide Receiver Josh Downs Browns vs. Colts Alt Uni
Robert Scheer, USA TODAY NETWORK-IndyStar
This year saw a number of injuries, particularly to the Colts rookie class. The team made 12 selections in the 2023 NFL Draft, but five of those picks would end their careers due to injuries either before or during the regular season. The affected first-year players are listed below:
Quarterback Anthony Richardson: (4 games played) AC Joint Sprain
Security Daniel Scott: No games played due to an ACL tear
sprinting back Evan Hull: Meniscus Torn (one game)
Tight end Titus Leo: Knee (did not play in any games)
Harsh Tackle Jake Witt: Not playing any games.
Three of the five injured rookies were not on the field, as can be seen. Other recent additions, though, contributed significantly to the team. The players in pivotal positions, games played, and season-long stats are listed below:
Cornerback 9 games, 43 tackles, 6 passes defended, and 1 interception for JuJu Brents
Broad Receiver Josh Downs: 30 first downs, 771 yards, 68 catches, 17 games
inflammatory Take on 14 games, 701 snaps (131 left, 568 right) played by Blake Freeland
Close End Will Mallory has 18 catches for 207 yards in 12 games, with a 69.2% catch efficiency.
Cornerback Jaylon Jones: according to Pro Football Focus, 17 games, 44 tackles, 5 passes defended, and a 57.3 coverage grade
Throughout the year, these rookies were thrown into starting positions. Going into 2024, this must instill a great deal of confidence in Steichen and Indianapolis’ front office. This is particularly true if their 2023 and new draft selections help to limit injuries.
