Current Peek at the Depth Chart

[BlueShoe]

Current Peak at the Depth Chart

 

I always keep a running journal of our Depth Chart. It keeps my mind fresh on what the Colts are doing. Once all of the draft picks are signed then our depth chart will be back up to 90. It's a fun time of the year. This chart is ever flowing, and not an official chart from the Indianapolis Colts. Just one fans point of view for discussion purposes. I will warn you in advance; this is a long read. Now feel free to get inside the mind of BlueShoe.

 

Quarterback

 

Not much really to discuss here. Andrew Luck is the starter, Matt Hasselbeck is the backup, and UDFA Bryan Bennett will have the chance to earn a spot on the practice squad.

 

1. Andrew Luck
2. Matt Hasselbeck
3. Bryan Bennett

 

Running Back

 

1. After 11 NFL seasons, starter Frank Gore is still producing at a high level, but one has to wonder how long he can contain success at such a physically demanding position. Probably the most overlooked skillset that Gore brings to the table is the ability to protect Andrew Luck in pass protection.
2. Vick Ballard is the wildcard, earning fan favorite status, and if healthy should easily make the 53 man roster. Vick could be the number two running back in the rotation. A lot will depend on how he bounces back from two back-to-back devastating season ending injuries.
3. Boom Herron stepped up and played well down the stretch; however, his fumbling issues are a concern. He doesn’t flash superstar, but he did manage to produce behind an underwhelming and often changing offensive line.
4. Josh Robinson is a new face and style of runner in the mix, and will likely make the team. Robinson is a smaller back who breaks a lot of tackles, and has good hands out of the backfield. At this time he does not possess the desired pass protection abilities, and his size will likely hinder his ability to improve on this.
5. Zurlon Tipton is a bigger back who runs downhill possessing absolutely zero flashy traits. Even though he has experience in our offense, I think it could be tough for him to make the team, unless we have an injury at the position.
6. Tyler Varga is a new 2015 UDFA. Is he a running back or a full back? I don’t know, but he might find a spot on our practice squad until we can figure it out.
7. Jeff Demps was signed to the practice squad late last season. He has elite speed, and we are probably going to give him a look as a return man. At this time, it’s a real long shot to make the team, but I do believe he has some practice squad eligibility left.

 

Wide Receiver

 

1. T.Y. Hilton is obviously one of the top rated wide receivers in the game. I actually expect to see his targets dip a little this year due to the strength at the position.
2. Andre Johnson has probably lost a step, but he is still a valuable veteran who brings leadership to the group. I see him as our possession receiver who will play on most downs and become a huge contributor in our bigger packages.
3. Donte Moncrief has both size and speed. He really came on late at the end of last season, but he is still learning the NFL game.
4. Phillip Dorsett will likely play two roles, both as a receiver and also as a punt returner.
5. Vincent Brown is the best of the rest and has flashed potential in his short career. He has a leg up to make the team.
6. Griff Whalen is the lunch pail kid who just shows up and does the dirty work. He is the guy everyone always counts out, but somehow he finds a way to stick on the roster. This year is no different. He is a bubble roster guy and it might take an injury for him to make the team.
7. Duron Carter is the wildcard at receiver. His father is in the hall of fame, and the only road Duron has followed is the beginning of his father’s career, which was anything but hall worthy. As a fan you want to root for this kid, but ultimately it is up to him. We have to remember just because his father was great; it does not make him so.
8. Josh Lenz will need to show something in camp to crack this tough lineup.
9. Ryan Lankford is in the same boat as Lenz.
10. Kadron Boone was the third receiver at LSU and the Eagles picked him up as an UDFA after the 2014 draft. I need to see him play before I can have any real thoughts about him.
11. Ezell Ruffin is a new UDFA. Ezell is a good run blocker, but had only 5 touchdowns vs. 195 targets over a three year span at San Diego State.
12. Quan Bray is another new UDFA. I think we primarily brought Bray in to try him out at returning punts. Bray is a slot receiver, and although I doubt he makes the 53, I am going to keep my eye in this cat as a possible practice squad guy.

 

Tight End

 

1. Dwayne Allen is in a contract year and the market will demand a lot for his services. I am concerned about the price tag to keep him, and just as concerned how we could possibly replace him. Allen is such a good pass blocker that I honestly believe if he added some weight he could play left tackle in the NFL.
2. Coby Fleener is a head scratcher. Sometimes he can be the best receiver on the field, but other times it is like he isn’t even paying attention. I don’t know if it is a focus issue, but we know he is smart. He went to Stanford. It just feels as though he is going through the motions sometimes.
3. Jack Doyle was a surprise to all of us last year. He is the total package at tight end. He blocks well and he has good hands. While he doesn’t flash the high end ability that Coby can in the receiving game, he is consistent.
4. Erik Swoope has a year under his belt. The converted basketball player spent last season on the practice squad, and it will be interesting to see how he is progressing.
5. Jean Sifrin is a new UDFA and also a former basketball player. He will be a 27 year old rookie, and doesn’t have much football experience.

 

Offensive Tackle

 

1. Anthony Castonzo is by far our best offensive lineman and will soon get paid upwards of ten million a year. We can’t lose him. He could start for most teams in the NFL.
2. Jack Mewhort is our second best offensive lineman, and I have a feeling that he is on the move to right tackle. We need two solid tackles to create a foundation, and Mewhort moving will provide the consistency that we are currently missing.
3. Gosder Cherilus is probably about finished in the NFL. If we can get one more year from him then we will be extremely lucky. He was once a solid right tackle and he served us well. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.
4. Ulrick John is the real deal if he can stay healthy. He stepped in and played surprisingly well. The coaches obviously saw something a season ago, to promote him second on the depth chart at left tackle. Unfortunately he was injured before we could see everything the coaches did. I was shocked when he entered the preseason with the number 2’s, so I scrambled after the game was finished to watch the tape. He looked really good and natural at left tackle. I am optimistic about his future with the Colts.  
5. Denzelle Good is a new UDFA, and I had never heard his name before he was selected by the Colts. All I know about him is he has incredible size at 6’7” and 320 pounds. I think Grigson likes to draft players late that Colts fans have a hard time spelling and writing correctly.
6. Tyler Hoover converted from defensive end last year, and showed enough promise to make the practice squad.
7. Matt Hall was waived injured last year in the preseason. It looks like he will get another shot in camp.
8. Demarco Cox is another basketball project. This worked out well for Reitz, so we will see.

 

Guard

 

1. Todd Herremans was an early free agency pickup and although he can play four positions, I currently see him as the starting right guard. He is only on a one-year deal, but if he plays well. I could see us extend that to another year or so.
2. Joe Reitz has endured so many injuries, but he managed to stay on the field more last season. He has become our swing tackle and he can play all four spots. He is one of the few players left over from the Polian administration. Maybe it is me living in the past, but he flashed so much potential next to Castonzo that I am projecting him as the starting left guard. It may be a long shot, but it makes sense to me right now. 
3. Hugh Thornton will enter his third season, after playing left guard in his rookie year and then right guard his sophomore season. I do not believe he possesses the starter qualities we need, but he is a viable option to come off the bench and play at either guard spot.
4. Donald Thomas was at one time our best interior offensive lineman, and that was unfortunate because he made a career living as a backup before we signed him. What is more unfortunate is he cannot stay healthy. We should cut our losses and move on, but I can also see why the coaches want to wait to make any moves. Get everyone in camp and let’s see how we look. I would be very wary of giving Thomas the majority of first string offseason reps, because it will only cause more inexperience when he goes down due to injury again.
5. Lance Louis is a lot like Thornton. I think there can be a spot on this team for him, but the future of Thomas will likely dictate that decision.
6. Ben Heenan was born in Canada and a former number one pick in the CFL. He drew a lot of interest from NFL teams and chose the Colts. I only have him listed this low on the depth chart because I want to see him play in camp before making any judgements. He obviously has a shot to make the team.
7. David Arkin came into the league with Castonzo and is a former fourth round draft pick of the Dallas Cowboys. Arkin was inactive for every Cowboys game in his rookie year, and has only seen action in one NFL game, when he was with Miami. We signed him last season to the practice squad and then brought him up to the 53, but he was never activated for a game.

 

Center

 

1. Khaled Holmes is the best we have, but as of now that is not saying much. We are very weak at center, and Holmes is the only player slotted at center who has the potential to develop into anything above average.
2. Jonotthan Harrison surprised a lot of people, including myself, by winning the starting spot last year. That said, he lost his starting role late in the season. He was never great to begin with, but he knows our system and could play an important role if Khaled were to go down again.
3. Brandon Vitabile is another UDFA. Vitabile reminds a lot of A.Q. Shipley, and we all know how that worked out. I am still scratching my head over that one.

 

Defensive Tackle

 

1. Arthur Jones was not the vital addition last season to stop the run, but he helped improve our run defense. His price tag compared to other highly rated defensive tackles in the league favor the Colts. Although Jones may not have been as impactful as most fans expected, this was and remains a good signing by Grigson.
2. Zack Kerr makes the team simply because he is the best nickel package defensive tackle on the squad. Kerr has splashed the toughness and quickness to beat guards in the NFL. The undrafted free agent from 2014 has a bright future with the Colts.
3. Montario Hughes played at a small college and is still learning. He swelled up to 350 pounds so I am wondering if we might be looking to convert him to nose tackle in the base hybrid package. I think this may have been the long-term plan with him. There was even confusion on the Colts Website last year, listing him as a defensive tackle on the roster, but as a nose tackle on the depth chart.
4. Kelcy Quarles is a player who has bounced around on our practice, and the 53 man roster. He has been a journey practice squad player in his first season.

 

Nose Tackle

 

1. Josh Chapman stayed relatively healthy last season. That itself was a huge accomplishment. I am not ready to crown him or write him off. I still need to see more so I will reserve judgement for another season.
2. David Parry was a nose tackle in college, but his build screams defensive tackle or defensive end in our system. I think we will move Hughes to nose tackle and have Parry at defensive tackle, but for now I will pencil him in with his college position.

 

Defensive End

 

1. Kendall Langford has been a valuable defensive lineman since his early days in Miami. We are fortunate to have him, and his veteran leadership will bode well for grooming Anderson.
2. Henry Anderson kind of has a little J.J. Watt in him. Although he not nearly as explosive at Watt, he resembles a young 2011 Watt. Anderson is long and disruptive, and uses his entire 6’6” frame to reach out and grab the ankles of quarterbacks and ball carriers. He has a subtle but sneaky quickness about him. We should really keep an eye on this kid.
3. Gannon Conway is another player who has bounced around the Colts practice squad and 53 man roster.
4. Earl Okine was signed from the fall experimental league, and has played in the Arena League, and in the CFL.

 

Rush Linebacker

 

1. Robert Mathis was off a year due to suspension and injury plus he is 34 years old. Obviously on the downside of his career and coming off a serious injury, we should not get our hopes up. It will be a good day when he walks back on the field. I can envision the fans exploding with emotions now. We signed Trent Cole for a reason, and Newsome showed some real promise. I think Mathis will be limited to passing downs.
2. Trent Cole is the pass rushing run stuffer we have needed in this system. Unlike years of the old, teams will have to think twice before running to the weak side. It will not be easy pickings anymore.
3. Jonathan Newsome is a lot like Mathis, and there is a vital role for him in our system. He is a third down linebacker, pass rush specialist. Trent Cole will help us get the opposing teams where we want them, and Mathis/Newsome will come in and finish them off.
4. Cam Johnson has managed to stick with us this long, but unfortunately I think his days could be numbered. Cam can play in the NFL, but unless we have a setback due to injury, we just don’t have enough positions to go around. I would like to see Cam get a shot in a 4-3 system as a strong outside linebacker. I think Cam would have flourished as a SAM in Dungy’s system. It’s sad too, because we searched for years to solidify the SAM, and now we have one who could do it well, but we don’t even need him.
5. Zack Hodges is a new UDFA from Harvard. We are going to have to wait and see how he fits in our system. I am not sure if he will be better at Rush or on the strong side. He is a developmental guy with practice squad potential.

 

Strong Outside Linebacker

 

1. Erik Walden remains the best edge setter on the team. He doesn’t get the glory, and is usually the fall guy (from fans) when things go wrong, but he is the reason we are not last in the league stopping the run. Walden does not play a position that piles up statistics, and his job doesn’t show well on paper. Sometimes fans do not understand why this is. Next time we do a good job against the run, stop and thank Mr. Walden. He brought that ability to this team, yet few rarely ever sing his praises.
2. Bjoern Werner is playing out of position. I am not sure what Pagano and Grigson were thinking on this deal. Maybe they fell in love during the courting process, but he has done everything but convince me he is capable of becoming a Rush Linebacker. On the contrary he looks slow, and more suited to backup Walden on the strong side.
3. Daniel Adongo has come a long way to try out American football, and maybe he has another year on the practice squad. I don’t know, because he was injured last season before we had the opportunity to really see what he can do. I am sure he is still as raw as they come, but who knows.
4. Terrell Hartsfield is an UDFA. His best fit looks to be on the strong side.

 

Strong Inside Linebacker

 

1. D’Qwell Jackson played well at times against the run last season, but struggled in coverage. It is pretty much what to expect from most take on linebackers. He did help solidify the position, but he is a stop gap player toward the future. It is unlikely for D’Qwell to be unseated as the starter in 2015.
2. Henoc Muamba made the 53 last year and played in six games. Originally signed from the CFL last season. Muamba has a decent shot of making the 53 again.
3. Carlos Fields has traveled around quite a bit in his short time in the NFL. Spent time in Oakland, Tampa Bay, New York Giants, then we signed him to our practice squad last season.

 

Weak Inside Linebacker

 

1. Jerrell Freeman is our best coverage linebacker; as well he should be, because he is our starting weak inside backer. He did not make any friends with his recent stunt he pulled of wanting more money. To be honest, I am still a little ticked off about it. We brought this guy in from Canada, gave him a home to craft his game, and he wants to balk on the original deal he signed. And yes the option to tender is part of the original deal he signed. He reluctantly signed the tender and tried to save some face, but I am not buying it. He needs to just worry about playing linebacker for the Colts and let the rest take care of itself. I personally don’t care if he is here or not next year, but he is likely our starter in 2015. I have no wiggle room for people who do not do what they said they would do, and his entire situation makes me sick.
2. Nate Irving is another veteran who we brought in this offseason and he can play Mike or Will. He is coming off of an injury, so he may not be ready by training camp. When healthy, Irving is a disruptive player. I am rooting for him to eventually beat out Freeman as the starter. It would please me very much to watch Freeman sit the bench this year and make no money next season.
3. Amarlo Herrera was a sixth round pick because he is not the ideal size for a take on linebacker, so he is stuck on the weak side. He has a shot because of his ability to cover tight ends and running backs. He is not a ferocious hitter, but neither is Freeman.
4. Shawn Loiseau has been in and out of our lives for a while. He was put on injured reserve the last couple of seasons, and has played decent in our nickel sets during the preseason. He does have a high motor, and when given the opportunity he plays like he really wants to be here.

 

Strong Safety

 

1. Clayton Geathers became a starter as a redshirt freshman in college. I have a gut feeling he will flash enough skills in camp to earn a starting spot. To be honest, he is probably the best strong safety on the team right now. He understands the NFL well, due to having six relatives who have played in the NFL. He will settle in quickly, and have a real shot at starting on day one.
2. Dewey McDonald has played both strong safety and free safety, and will probably continue to do so, but I can see how the depth chart might give him more looks on the strong side this offseason. He is a good special team’s contributor and I do not see him going anywhere in the near future.
3. Guy Winston has bounced around from Seattle, Jacksonville, and last year signed with us on the practice squad. I am not sure there is anything to see here, but it’s worth taking a look at.
4. Robert Smith is another UDFA, and was not invited to the NFL combine. He is not an elite athlete, but played decent against the run and in coverage for Clemson.
5. Junior Sylvestre is another UDFA. He played outside linebacker for Toledo, but at under six foot and 222 pounds, I cannot imagine him making it as a linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. This cat is built more like a strong safety, and it will not surprise me to see him moved. I am not sure what the game plan is, so for now I have him at strong safety.

 

Free Safety

 

1. Mike Adams is our most qualified safety, but age is certainly a concern. He earned every dime he made on his new deal and we are lucky to have him. Adams is a stop gap guy but I say that very respectfully.
2. Dwight Lowery is another new free agent addition and will be a solid backup who can step in if Adams were to go down. Lowery was part of a defense in Atlanta last year that had all kinds of issues, including a pass rush amongst the worst in the NFL. The Atlanta fans were sad to see him go, and did not cast the blame on him. He was a bright spot for the Falcons.
3. Colt Anderson is likely moving on to another pasture unless injuries strike the safety position.

 

Left Cornerback

 

1. Greg Toler stayed healthy for most of the season. I hope we never experiment with moving him again though, because when Vontae went down in the Pittsburgh game, Toler was lost at right corner. Toler is a left cornerback who needs someone playing well at right corner, so additional help can be pushed his way. D’Joun Smith is an option here (could unseat Toler), but he does not have the size that Toler brings.
2. Sheldon Price is one of the most uncoordinated corners I have ever seen in the NFL. I know his size at corner is something to fall in live with, but this might have been chuck’s toughest project in Indianapolis. Price played much better last year, and looked a little more fluid. He might make the team, but he is a bubble player.
3. Deveron Carr was signed from the NFL Veterans Combine. Tampa Bay originally signed as an UDFA in 2013.

 

Slot Corner

 

1. Darius Butler will sometimes have games that make you believe he is the best nickel corner in the game (shutting down Welker), but last year he had a few games that were disastrous. I really like Butler, but it is going to be very hard to keep Smith from stepping on the football field. Darius better play like he is the best nickel corner in the game this year.
2. D’Joun Smith has proclaimed to become the best corner in the game. I love his confidence and sure would not want to be Butler right now, because Smith is the total package. He can cover, he can hit, and his instincts are off the charts. I believe he is a future star in this league.

 

Right Cornerback

 

1. Vontae Davis is the best corner in the NFL. He doesn’t get to play in a zone scheme where weaknesses can be masked. Our entire defense revolves around Vontae Davis. He shuts down any receiver who lines up on the offenses left side, and forces opposing teams to run plays that run from right to left. He is the most impactful player we have on defense.
2. Jalil Brown has traveled around a bit over the past few seasons. He was in Kansas City, then we signed and released him, he was Miami for a spell, and we signed him again last season.
3. osh Mitchell is another UDFA. I really don’t know too much about him.

 

Special Teams

 

1. Pat McAfee isn’t going anywhere.
2. Adam Vinatieri is getting older, but still has it.
3. Matt Overton should remain the long snapper. 

[Bravo]

Not bad but have some issues in my opinion....

Again this is just my opinion but....

RB- Vick isn't second. Boom is. Vick is done. He was a stud but two no contact season injuries in a row isn't good. He hasn't played football in two years. Boom proved that it's his spot until someone takes it.

G- Mewhort will not move to tackle. The front office says they "can" use everyone everywhere but it's not gonna happen with Mewhort. Mewhort and Constanzo had a great thing going on the left side of the offensive line and were really the only bright spots. Why ruin that!? Mewhort looked great at guard it would be bad to ruin what he had going at that posistion. (Who knows with our front office, they dislike good offensive line play)

WR- Griff most likely Ian. Infront of Carter. Griff has been the odd man out the past couple seasons.

Saftey- Idk if Geathers starts or not but even if he does his back up will be Lowery. Lowery will most likely start at FS/SS though with Adams at SS/FS. Dewey backs up Adams at SS and Geathers back up Lowery.

[PuntersArePeopleToo]

I really am going to want to watch the SS spot this training camp. That is going to be interesting

[rock8591]

No offense, but some of it just sounded silly. Was it machine generated or proof-read at all??

 

"Anthony Castonzo is by far our best offensive lineman and will soon get paid upwards of ten million a year. We can’t lose him. He could start for most teams in the NFL."

 

huh?? Lucky to get 8 million, probably closer to 5-7 IMO at best. And why give $10 million for someone "who can start" for most teams?

[Kezzarino]

I think at safety Lowery and Adams are interchangeable at the positions. Geathers will back up at the SS spot with Guy backing up the FS spot. Dewey will spend another year on the PS pending any injury's 

[dw49]

Could a Mod go in and fix the thread title ?

[BlueShoe]

No offense, but some of it just sounded silly. Was it machine generated or proof-read at all??

 

"Anthony Castonzo is by far our best offensive lineman and will soon get paid upwards of ten million a year. We can’t lose him. He could start for most teams in the NFL."

 

huh?? Lucky to get 8 million, probably closer to 5-7 IMO at best. And why give $10 million for someone "who can start" for most teams?

 

It is like 5000 words so I am sure there are some grammatical errors. It's not like I employ an editor at my house.

 

I don't know why you are having a tough time understanding my thoughts on Castonzo. You are dreaming if you think we can sign Castonzo for 5-7 million a year. 

[BlueShoe]

Could a Mod go in and fix the thread title ?

 

What is wrong with the title?

[BlueShoe]

Not bad but have some issues in my opinion....

Again this is just my opinion but....

RB- Vick isn't second. Boom is. Vick is done. He was a stud but two no contact season injuries in a row isn't good. He hasn't played football in two years. Boom proved that it's his spot until someone takes it.

G- Mewhort will not move to tackle. The front office says they "can" use everyone everywhere but it's not gonna happen with Mewhort. Mewhort and Constanzo had a great thing going on the left side of the offensive line and were really the only bright spots. Why ruin that!? Mewhort looked great at guard it would be bad to ruin what he had going at that posistion. (Who knows with our front office, they dislike good offensive line play)

WR- Griff most likely Ian. Infront of Carter. Griff has been the odd man out the past couple seasons.

Saftey- Idk if Geathers starts or not but even if he does his back up will be Lowery. Lowery will most likely start at FS/SS though with Adams at SS/FS. Dewey backs up Adams at SS and Geathers back up Lowery.

 

Just my current thoughts. Only subjective thinking at this point for any of us. 

[dw49]

What is wrong with the title?

 

 

There's Pikes Peak and there's taking a peek at something.

[BlueShoe]

There's Pikes Peak and there's taking a peek at something.

 

LOL.

 

Good catch.

[rock8591]

It is like 5000 words so I am sure there are some grammatical errors. It's not like I employ an editor at my house.

 

I don't know why you are having a tough time understanding my thoughts on Castonzo. You are dreaming if you think we can sign Castonzo for 5-7 million a year. 

 

King Dunlap got 4 years 28 million (7 million a year basically), Nate Solder and Sebastian Vollmer are in similar 7.5 million range.

[BlueShoe]

King Dunlap got 4 years 28 million (7 million a year basically).

 

 

You said 5-7 million per year. You may want to take a look at this list:

 

http://overthecap.com/position/left-tackle

[dw49]

LOL.

 

Good catch.

 

 

Did  you like the draft class ?

[BlueShoe]

Did  you like the draft class ?

 

I think we did very well. Going through the depth chart, it was tough finding any spots for the UDFA's. And although a lot can change from now until August, the 53 man roster looks pretty easy to see right now.

 

We got some real value in this draft, plus we filled some key needs. 

[dw49]

I think we did very well. Going through the depth chart, it was tough finding any spots for the UDFA's. And although a lot can change from now until August, the 53 man roster looks pretty easy to see right now.

 

We got some real value in this draft, plus we filled some key needs. 

 

 

I agree .... I thought Grigson killed it. 

[tannurr]

Freeman wasn't necessarily just trying to get more money. He wanted a longer deal so he could finish out his career in Indy. And all he did was skip Voluntary workouts anyway. Its not that big of a deal.

[BlueShoe]

Freeman wasn't necessarily just trying to get more money. He wanted a longer deal so he could finish out his career in Indy. And all he did was skip Voluntary workouts anyway. Its not that big of a deal.

If he would have signed the tender and then skipped the workout we wouldn't be having this conversation.

[Bluefire4]

I cannot wait to see the WR battle in preseason. Matt Hasselbeck is going to have a lot of fun.

[Bravo]

Just my current thoughts. Only subjective thinking at this point for any of us.

I agree!

[Coltsman1788]

Blue Shoe...thanks for the effort of posting all of that. It was an interesting read.

[Jdubu]

Great write up. It will be fun to see the roster develope during preseason. Constanza may not make 10 million but you are correct, he is our best and he will be paid as such for a LT. Mewhort is 2nd and then ???? SS and honestly the whole defense (except Davis) will be up for grabs IMO. We have guys that are just good enough to not have the team take a risk swapping them out for a new guy with better potential. Anyway, good work

[horseshoeblue22]

Thanks for writing this. I just did a write-up of the guys I expect to make the final 53, and their defined roles...and I used this article of yours as a reference. I love when people on this board actually put a little bit of effort into their writing, not just three word responses. 

[bananabucket]

No offense, but some of it just sounded silly. Was it machine generated or proof-read at all??

 

"Anthony Castonzo is by far our best offensive lineman and will soon get paid upwards of ten million a year. We can’t lose him. He could start for most teams in the NFL."

 

huh?? Lucky to get 8 million, probably closer to 5-7 IMO at best. And why give $10 million for someone "who can start" for most teams?

 

 

 

what have you been smoking?

[krunk]

I do not think Sylvestre will be moved to safety at all.  Although he's undersized he's really strong.

I can see where you're coming from because he runs about a 4.4 to 4.5 in the 40.  If you study up

on him you'll find out that in college they switched him away from a LB position that required him to

play a lot in space to one that didn't require it as much.  After the switch he excelled from there, so 

I can't imagine the Colts switching him to be a safety.

[krunk]

Assuming Sylvestre made the team at his current weight of 222 lbs I can see him bulking up to 230 or 240 (which is about similar to Jerrell Freeman) and being switched to ILB as he's known to be a pretty physical hitter from what I've read.   I'm not so confident Mwamba will make the cut this year(could be wrong), and I don't think we are bringing back Mcnary.  If Sylvestre made it I could see him and Herrera being the backups to Jackson and Freeman.  The other option I see is the practice squad

[tannurr]

If he would have signed the tender and then skipped the workout we wouldn't be having this conversation.

I thought I saw somewhere that he got permission anyway. I may be wrong though.

[chrisfarley]

You said 5-7 million per year. You may want to take a look at this list:

 

http://overthecap.com/position/left-tackle

i think contract total value is telling: He will command a lot of money ---   http://overthecap.com/player/anthony-castonzo/539/

[Smonroe]

Just my current thoughts. Only subjective thinking at this point for any of us.

Great job on the depth chart. It's fluid, but you gave us a good starting point for discussions.

[BlueShoe]

Great write up. It will be fun to see the roster develope during preseason. Constanza may not make 10 million but you are correct, he is our best and he will be paid as such for a LT. Mewhort is 2nd and then ???? SS and honestly the whole defense (except Davis) will be up for grabs IMO. We have guys that are just good enough to not have the team take a risk swapping them out for a new guy with better potential. Anyway, good work

 

I actually think that Castonzo will make around 8-9 million per year. I wrote up to 10 million per year, only because it will depend on the LT market in the 2015-2016 off-season. 

 

Thanks for the kind words. 

[Defjamz26]

I don't think Geathers will start. It usually takes an injury for a rookie to start for us.

Mewhort started because Thomas was injured. Gordon started at guard his rookie year for the same reason. Moncrief was outplaying Nicks for awhile and he didn't start over him until late. Newsome didn't earn a starting spot either and I think he was 1st or second in the team in sacks.

[lollygagger8]

Good work! I'm sure this took quite a bit of time. 

[Coltsluckyghost]

way isee the OL   

 

LT                  LG             C           RG                  RT 

Costanzo    Mewhort   Holmes     Herremans    Cherilus

Reitz            Louis        Harrison   Thornton       John 

[Jdubu]

I actually think that Castonzo will make around 8-9 million per year. I wrote up to 10 million per year, only because it will depend on the LT market in the 2015-2016 off-season.

Thanks for the kind words.

Yeah I think 8-8/12 is about the high watermark (I hope) but you are right, depends on who sets the market and you would think Castonzo has the upper hand being he is an above avg known quantity in our offense vs going with someone else who is not known in our system. Unless he has a bad year, I would suspect he will get that watermark number.

[superrep1967]

Freeman wasn't necessarily just trying to get more money. He wanted a longer deal so he could finish out his career in Indy. And all he did was skip Voluntary workouts anyway. Its not that big of a deal.

I totally agree he did nothing wrong it just business. He just wanted some security in case they cut him at some point. Which they can at anytime. 

[superrep1967]

way isee the OL   

 

LT                  LG             C           RG                  RT 

Costanzo    Mewhort   Holmes     Herremans    Cherilus

Reitz            Louis        Harrison   Thornton       John 

I think we should move Mewhort to right tackle. We can't count on Cherius. 

[Warhorse]

Well done, try to ignore those who criticize without knowing the effort. If we still cared about in depth writing, twitter and texting would not exist. Soon we will be able to follow trends of fans hating a player, loving that player, hating that player, and loving that player........all in the same game.

 

I can't wait.....

[Toe Toed Sloth]

Thank you! Great read and insights!

[throwing BBZ]

Dwayne Allens blocking last season was good not great. Hilarious LT comment.
Montori Hughes was a NT last season. So ???

Werner is > than Walden as an edge setter, and IMO will be the starter when he gets to play his NATURAL position.

 Don`t think you understood the Freeman thing AT ALL.
 Barring injuries, it would be a shock if Geathers starts a game this season. Of course i do hope he proves me wrong.
  You under estimate both of our centers.
 Cam Johnson is bigger than you think. If healthy last season, you wouldn`t have heard from Newsome.
 And Newsome does have tons of skill as a pass rusher. A burst and that bend.
  All JMO of course. An OK job otherwise.

[Surge89]

Current Peak at the Depth Chart

I always keep a running journal of our Depth Chart. It keeps my mind fresh on what the Colts are doing. Once all of the draft picks are signed then our depth chart will be back up to 90. It's a fun time of the year. This chart is ever flowing, and not an official chart from the Indianapolis Colts. Just one fans point of view for discussion purposes. I will warn you in advance; this is a long read. Now feel free to get inside the mind of BlueShoe.

Quarterback

Not much really to discuss here. Andrew Luck is the starter, Matt Hasselbeck is the backup, and UDFA Bryan Bennett will have the chance to earn a spot on the practice squad.

• Andrew Luck
• Matt Hasselbeck
• Bryan Bennett

Running Back

• After 11 NFL seasons, starter Frank Gore is still producing at a high level, but one has to wonder how long he can contain success at such a physically demanding position. Probably the most overlooked skillset that Gore brings to the table is the ability to protect Andrew Luck in pass protection.
• Vick Ballard is the wildcard, earning fan favorite status, and if healthy should easily make the 53 man roster. Vick could be the number two running back in the rotation. A lot will depend on how he bounces back from two back-to-back devastating season ending injuries.
• Boom Herron stepped up and played well down the stretch; however, his fumbling issues are a concern. He doesn’t flash superstar, but he did manage to produce behind an underwhelming and often changing offensive line.
• Josh Robinson is a new face and style of runner in the mix, and will likely make the team. Robinson is a smaller back who breaks a lot of tackles, and has good hands out of the backfield. At this time he does not possess the desired pass protection abilities, and his size will likely hinder his ability to improve on this.
• Zurlon Tipton is a bigger back who runs downhill possessing absolutely zero flashy traits. Even though he has experience in our offense, I think it could be tough for him to make the team, unless we have an injury at the position.
• Tyler Varga is a new 2015 UDFA. Is he a running back or a full back? I don’t know, but he might find a spot on our practice squad until we can figure it out.
• Jeff Demps was signed to the practice squad late last season. He has elite speed, and we are probably going to give him a look as a return man. At this time, it’s a real long shot to make the team, but I do believe he has some practice squad eligibility left.

Wide Receiver

• T.Y. Hilton is obviously one of the top rated wide receivers in the game. I actually expect to see his targets dip a little this year due to the strength at the position.
• Andre Johnson has probably lost a step, but he is still a valuable veteran who brings leadership to the group. I see him as our possession receiver who will play on most downs and become a huge contributor in our bigger packages.
• Donte Moncrief has both size and speed. He really came on late at the end of last season, but he is still learning the NFL game.
• Phillip Dorsett will likely play two roles, both as a receiver and also as a punt returner.
• Vincent Brown is the best of the rest and has flashed potential in his short career. He has a leg up to make the team.
• Griff Whalen is the lunch pail kid who just shows up and does the dirty work. He is the guy everyone always counts out, but somehow he finds a way to stick on the roster. This year is no different. He is a bubble roster guy and it might take an injury for him to make the team.
• Duron Carter is the wildcard at receiver. His father is in the hall of fame, and the only road Duron has followed is the beginning of his father’s career, which was anything but hall worthy. As a fan you want to root for this kid, but ultimately it is up to him. We have to remember just because his father was great; it does not make him so.
• Josh Lenz will need to show something in camp to crack this tough lineup.
• Ryan Lankford is in the same boat as Lenz.
• Kadron Boone was the third receiver at LSU and the Eagles picked him up as an UDFA after the 2014 draft. I need to see him play before I can have any real thoughts about him.
• Ezell Ruffin is a new UDFA. Ezell is a good run blocker, but had only 5 touchdowns vs. 195 targets over a three year span at San Diego State.
• Quan Bray is another new UDFA. I think we primarily brought Bray in to try him out at returning punts. Bray is a slot receiver, and although I doubt he makes the 53, I am going to keep my eye in this cat as a possible practice squad guy.

Tight End

• Dwayne Allen is in a contract year and the market will demand a lot for his services. I am concerned about the price tag to keep him, and just as concerned how we could possibly replace him. Allen is such a good pass blocker that I honestly believe if he added some weight he could play left tackle in the NFL.
• Coby Fleener is a head scratcher. Sometimes he can be the best receiver on the field, but other times it is like he isn’t even paying attention. I don’t know if it is a focus issue, but we know he is smart. He went to Stanford. It just feels as though he is going through the motions sometimes.
• Jack Doyle was a surprise to all of us last year. He is the total package at tight end. He blocks well and he has good hands. While he doesn’t flash the high end ability that Coby can in the receiving game, he is consistent.
• Erik Swoope has a year under his belt. The converted basketball player spent last season on the practice squad, and it will be interesting to see how he is progressing.
• Jean Sifrin is a new UDFA and also a former basketball player. He will be a 27 year old rookie, and doesn’t have much football experience.

Offensive Tackle

• Anthony Castonzo is by far our best offensive lineman and will soon get paid upwards of ten million a year. We can’t lose him. He could start for most teams in the NFL.
• Jack Mewhort is our second best offensive lineman, and I have a feeling that he is on the move to right tackle. We need two solid tackles to create a foundation, and Mewhort moving will provide the consistency that we are currently missing.
• Gosder Cherilus is probably about finished in the NFL. If we can get one more year from him then we will be extremely lucky. He was once a solid right tackle and he served us well. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.
• Ulrick John is the real deal if he can stay healthy. He stepped in and played surprisingly well. The coaches obviously saw something a season ago, to promote him second on the depth chart at left tackle. Unfortunately he was injured before we could see everything the coaches did. I was shocked when he entered the preseason with the number 2’s, so I scrambled after the game was finished to watch the tape. He looked really good and natural at left tackle. I am optimistic about his future with the Colts.
• Denzelle Good is a new UDFA, and I had never heard his name before he was selected by the Colts. All I know about him is he has incredible size at 6’7” and 320 pounds. I think Grigson likes to draft players late that Colts fans have a hard time spelling and writing correctly.
• Tyler Hoover converted from defensive end last year, and showed enough promise to make the practice squad.
• Matt Hall was waived injured last year in the preseason. It looks like he will get another shot in camp.
• Demarco Cox is another basketball project. This worked out well for Reitz, so we will see.

Guard

• Todd Herremans was an early free agency pickup and although he can play four positions, I currently see him as the starting right guard. He is only on a one-year deal, but if he plays well. I could see us extend that to another year or so.
• Joe Reitz has endured so many injuries, but he managed to stay on the field more last season. He has become our swing tackle and he can play all four spots. He is one of the few players left over from the Polian administration. Maybe it is me living in the past, but he flashed so much potential next to Castonzo that I am projecting him as the starting left guard. It may be a long shot, but it makes sense to me right now.
• Hugh Thornton will enter his third season, after playing left guard in his rookie year and then right guard his sophomore season. I do not believe he possesses the starter qualities we need, but he is a viable option to come off the bench and play at either guard spot.
• Donald Thomas was at one time our best interior offensive lineman, and that was unfortunate because he made a career living as a backup before we signed him. What is more unfortunate is he cannot stay healthy. We should cut our losses and move on, but I can also see why the coaches want to wait to make any moves. Get everyone in camp and let’s see how we look. I would be very wary of giving Thomas the majority of first string offseason reps, because it will only cause more inexperience when he goes down due to injury again.
• Lance Louis is a lot like Thornton. I think there can be a spot on this team for him, but the future of Thomas will likely dictate that decision.
• Ben Heenan was born in Canada and a former number one pick in the CFL. He drew a lot of interest from NFL teams and chose the Colts. I only have him listed this low on the depth chart because I want to see him play in camp before making any judgements. He obviously has a shot to make the team.
• David Arkin came into the league with Castonzo and is a former fourth round draft pick of the Dallas Cowboys. Arkin was inactive for every Cowboys game in his rookie year, and has only seen action in one NFL game, when he was with Miami. We signed him last season to the practice squad and then brought him up to the 53, but he was never activated for a game.

Center

• Khaled Holmes is the best we have, but as of now that is not saying much. We are very weak at center, and Holmes is the only player slotted at center who has the potential to develop into anything above average.
• Jonotthan Harrison surprised a lot of people, including myself, by winning the starting spot last year. That said, he lost his starting role late in the season. He was never great to begin with, but he knows our system and could play an important role if Khaled were to go down again.
• Brandon Vitabile is another UDFA. Vitabile reminds a lot of A.Q. Shipley, and we all know how that worked out. I am still scratching my head over that one.

Defensive Tackle

• Arthur Jones was not the vital addition last season to stop the run, but he helped improve our run defense. His price tag compared to other highly rated defensive tackles in the league favor the Colts. Although Jones may not have been as impactful as most fans expected, this was and remains a good signing by Grigson.
• Zack Kerr makes the team simply because he is the best nickel package defensive tackle on the squad. Kerr has splashed the toughness and quickness to beat guards in the NFL. The undrafted free agent from 2014 has a bright future with the Colts.
• Montario Hughes played at a small college and is still learning. He swelled up to 350 pounds so I am wondering if we might be looking to convert him to nose tackle in the base hybrid package. I think this may have been the long-term plan with him. There was even confusion on the Colts Website last year, listing him as a defensive tackle on the roster, but as a nose tackle on the depth chart.
• Kelcy Quarles is a player who has bounced around on our practice, and the 53 man roster. He has been a journey practice squad player in his first season.

Nose Tackle

• Josh Chapman stayed relatively healthy last season. That itself was a huge accomplishment. I am not ready to crown him or write him off. I still need to see more so I will reserve judgement for another season.
• David Parry was a nose tackle in college, but his build screams defensive tackle or defensive end in our system. I think we will move Hughes to nose tackle and have Parry at defensive tackle, but for now I will pencil him in with his college position.

Defensive End

• Kendall Langford has been a valuable defensive lineman since his early days in Miami. We are fortunate to have him, and his veteran leadership will bode well for grooming Anderson.
• Henry Anderson kind of has a little J.J. Watt in him. Although he not nearly as explosive at Watt, he resembles a young 2011 Watt. Anderson is long and disruptive, and uses his entire 6’6” frame to reach out and grab the ankles of quarterbacks and ball carriers. He has a subtle but sneaky quickness about him. We should really keep an eye on this kid.
• Gannon Conway is another player who has bounced around the Colts practice squad and 53 man roster.
• Earl Okine was signed from the fall experimental league, and has played in the Arena League, and in the CFL.

Rush Linebacker

• Robert Mathis was off a year due to suspension and injury plus he is 34 years old. Obviously on the downside of his career and coming off a serious injury, we should not get our hopes up. It will be a good day when he walks back on the field. I can envision the fans exploding with emotions now. We signed Trent Cole for a reason, and Newsome showed some real promise. I think Mathis will be limited to passing downs.
• Trent Cole is the pass rushing run stuffer we have needed in this system. Unlike years of the old, teams will have to think twice before running to the weak side. It will not be easy pickings anymore.
• Jonathan Newsome is a lot like Mathis, and there is a vital role for him in our system. He is a third down linebacker, pass rush specialist. Trent Cole will help us get the opposing teams where we want them, and Mathis/Newsome will come in and finish them off.
• Cam Johnson has managed to stick with us this long, but unfortunately I think his days could be numbered. Cam can play in the NFL, but unless we have a setback due to injury, we just don’t have enough positions to go around. I would like to see Cam get a shot in a 4-3 system as a strong outside linebacker. I think Cam would have flourished as a SAM in Dungy’s system. It’s sad too, because we searched for years to solidify the SAM, and now we have one who could do it well, but we don’t even need him.
• Zack Hodges is a new UDFA from Harvard. We are going to have to wait and see how he fits in our system. I am not sure if he will be better at Rush or on the strong side. He is a developmental guy with practice squad potential.

Strong Outside Linebacker

• Erik Walden remains the best edge setter on the team. He doesn’t get the glory, and is usually the fall guy (from fans) when things go wrong, but he is the reason we are not last in the league stopping the run. Walden does not play a position that piles up statistics, and his job doesn’t show well on paper. Sometimes fans do not understand why this is. Next time we do a good job against the run, stop and thank Mr. Walden. He brought that ability to this team, yet few rarely ever sing his praises.
• Bjoern Werner is playing out of position. I am not sure what Pagano and Grigson were thinking on this deal. Maybe they fell in love during the courting process, but he has done everything but convince me he is capable of becoming a Rush Linebacker. On the contrary he looks slow, and more suited to backup Walden on the strong side.
• Daniel Adongo has come a long way to try out American football, and maybe he has another year on the practice squad. I don’t know, because he was injured last season before we had the opportunity to really see what he can do. I am sure he is still as raw as they come, but who knows.
• Terrell Hartsfield is an UDFA. His best fit looks to be on the strong side.

Strong Inside Linebacker

• D’Qwell Jackson played well at times against the run last season, but struggled in coverage. It is pretty much what to expect from most take on linebackers. He did help solidify the position, but he is a stop gap player toward the future. It is unlikely for D’Qwell to be unseated as the starter in 2015.
• Henoc Muamba made the 53 last year and played in six games. Originally signed from the CFL last season. Muamba has a decent shot of making the 53 again.
• Carlos Fields has traveled around quite a bit in his short time in the NFL. Spent time in Oakland, Tampa Bay, New York Giants, then we signed him to our practice squad last season.

Weak Inside Linebacker

• Jerrell Freeman is our best coverage linebacker; as well he should be, because he is our starting weak inside backer. He did not make any friends with his recent stunt he pulled of wanting more money. To be honest, I am still a little ticked off about it. We brought this guy in from Canada, gave him a home to craft his game, and he wants to balk on the original deal he signed. And yes the option to tender is part of the original deal he signed. He reluctantly signed the tender and tried to save some face, but I am not buying it. He needs to just worry about playing linebacker for the Colts and let the rest take care of itself. I personally don’t care if he is here or not next year, but he is likely our starter in 2015. I have no wiggle room for people who do not do what they said they would do, and his entire situation makes me sick.
• Nate Irving is another veteran who we brought in this offseason and he can play Mike or Will. He is coming off of an injury, so he may not be ready by training camp. When healthy, Irving is a disruptive player. I am rooting for him to eventually beat out Freeman as the starter. It would please me very much to watch Freeman sit the bench this year and make no money next season.
• Amarlo Herrera was a sixth round pick because he is not the ideal size for a take on linebacker, so he is stuck on the weak side. He has a shot because of his ability to cover tight ends and running backs. He is not a ferocious hitter, but neither is Freeman.
• Shawn Loiseau has been in and out of our lives for a while. He was put on injured reserve the last couple of seasons, and has played decent in our nickel sets during the preseason. He does have a high motor, and when given the opportunity he plays like he really wants to be here.

Strong Safety

• Clayton Geathers became a starter as a redshirt freshman in college. I have a gut feeling he will flash enough skills in camp to earn a starting spot. To be honest, he is probably the best strong safety on the team right now. He understands the NFL well, due to having six relatives who have played in the NFL. He will settle in quickly, and have a real shot at starting on day one.
• Dewey McDonald has played both strong safety and free safety, and will probably continue to do so, but I can see how the depth chart might give him more looks on the strong side this offseason. He is a good special team’s contributor and I do not see him going anywhere in the near future.
• Guy Winston has bounced around from Seattle, Jacksonville, and last year signed with us on the practice squad. I am not sure there is anything to see here, but it’s worth taking a look at.
• Robert Smith is another UDFA, and was not invited to the NFL combine. He is not an elite athlete, but played decent against the run and in coverage for Clemson.
• Junior Sylvestre is another UDFA. He played outside linebacker for Toledo, but at under six foot and 222 pounds, I cannot imagine him making it as a linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. This cat is built more like a strong safety, and it will not surprise me to see him moved. I am not sure what the game plan is, so for now I have him at strong safety.

Free Safety

• Mike Adams is our most qualified safety, but age is certainly a concern. He earned every dime he made on his new deal and we are lucky to have him. Adams is a stop gap guy but I say that very respectfully.
• Dwight Lowery is another new free agent addition and will be a solid backup who can step in if Adams were to go down. Lowery was part of a defense in Atlanta last year that had all kinds of issues, including a pass rush amongst the worst in the NFL. The Atlanta fans were sad to see him go, and did not cast the blame on him. He was a bright spot for the Falcons.
• Colt Anderson is likely moving on to another pasture unless injuries strike the safety position.

Left Cornerback

• Greg Toler stayed healthy for most of the season. I hope we never experiment with moving him again though, because when Vontae went down in the Pittsburgh game, Toler was lost at right corner. Toler is a left cornerback who needs someone playing well at right corner, so additional help can be pushed his way. D’Joun Smith is an option here (could unseat Toler), but he does not have the size that Toler brings.
• Sheldon Price is one of the most uncoordinated corners I have ever seen in the NFL. I know his size at corner is something to fall in live with, but this might have been chuck’s toughest project in Indianapolis. Price played much better last year, and looked a little more fluid. He might make the team, but he is a bubble player.
• Deveron Carr was signed from the NFL Veterans Combine. Tampa Bay originally signed as an UDFA in 2013.

Slot Corner

• Darius Butler will sometimes have games that make you believe he is the best nickel corner in the game (shutting down Welker), but last year he had a few games that were disastrous. I really like Butler, but it is going to be very hard to keep Smith from stepping on the football field. Darius better play like he is the best nickel corner in the game this year.
• D’Joun Smith has proclaimed to become the best corner in the game. I love his confidence and sure would not want to be Butler right now, because Smith is the total package. He can cover, he can hit, and his instincts are off the charts. I believe he is a future star in this league.

Right Cornerback

• Vontae Davis is the best corner in the NFL. He doesn’t get to play in a zone scheme where weaknesses can be masked. Our entire defense revolves around Vontae Davis. He shuts down any receiver who lines up on the offenses left side, and forces opposing teams to run plays that run from right to left. He is the most impactful player we have on defense.
• Jalil Brown has traveled around a bit over the past few seasons. He was in Kansas City, then we signed and released him, he was Miami for a spell, and we signed him again last season.
• osh Mitchell is another UDFA. I really don’t know too much about him.

Special Teams

• Pat McAfee isn’t going anywhere.
• Adam Vinatieri is getting older, but still has it.
• Matt Overton should remain the long snapper.

A couple of tidbits if I may.

For the TE's

I think Fleener had the better season last year. While I think Allen had the tools of HoF Gonzales I think Fleener right now is growing at a faster pace.

For the Oline

I see Mewhort for the time being locked in at G. There is chemistry there I'd hate for them to break that up. I feel like you have underrated Holmes drastically. Not only is their chemistry when he is in but I think he has more talent.

For the DLine

I may be mistaken but didn't Hughes play NT?

For the edge setter's

I see Werner a better fit than Walden. And I like Walden. But to me Werner is one of our best at containment.

For the ILB

I hope Irving can come in and make a splash because I'm unimpressed by both Jackson and Freeman. I really wish we had gone ILB but what's done is done.

For the SS

I hope you are right about Geathers. I'm so excited for him. I think he's probably the most memorable of the bunch for me save Anderson, because I think he actually has a chance to start.

Good job. It's awesome to see the guys listed like you have.