There is a great deal of optimism coming from the Indianapolis Colts training camp, and why not? Rookie Andrew Luck has impressed everyone, drawing comparisons to former Colts great Peyton Manning. Those comparisons were inevitable, of course, but perhaps not far off. Still, until Luck sees live action, it's hard to draw accurate conclusions.
Another reason for (blind) optimism: Most of these guys are new. According to the first depth chart released Monday night, Indianapolis will start three rookies on offense and several other transplants on both sides of the ball. More than half of the Colts 90 man roster are new players.
The next Sam Bradford?: Not so much. Former Ram and current Colts defensive back Justin King told the Indianapolis Star that Luck doesn't make the same mistake twice, and that Bradford made misreads that Luck does not. Bradford threw for more than 3,500 yards as a rookie.
Rookie Hilton looks sharp: WR T.Y. Hilton has been impressive so far at camp. Hilton, who was expected to line up all over the field, has been doing most of his work at receiver and has shown off his hands and his blazing speed.
TE Allen shows versatility: Indianapolis drafted two tight ends in the first three rounds of the 2012 draft, and the second, Dwayne Allen of Clemson, seems to be fitting in nicely.
"(Offensive coordinator) Bruce Arians is doing a great job of utilizing my talents, using me in the run game, using me in the pass protection, but also letting me get out and catch some balls and show my versatility,” Allen told the Indianapolis Star. Coby Fleener, the other rookie tight end, is projected to start along with Allen in Sunday's opening preseason game.
Deep group of DBs: Jerraud Powers, pretty much the only sure-shot starter at cornerback, told ESPN.com that he views the group of corners as "strong and confident." They'd better be. The group is not necesarily experienced, and, as stated by Paul Kuharsky in the preceding link, look for teams to attack the defensive backfield with four or five wide outs.
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