UPDATE: Two Colts Players On The Hot Seat Entering 2024
Due to fluctuations in production and the Indianapolis Colts’ 2024 draft choices, a couple of players are under pressure to step up their game. The Colts had an impressive draft year, addressing several team needs as they strive to reclaim their status as AFC contenders. While this doesn’t imply that these players are past their prime, the incoming competition may present challenges for them.
Two Players on the Hot Seat for the Colts Entering 2024
Kwity Paye
The Colts decided to extend Kwity Paye’s contract through 2025 by exercising his fifth-year option on May 2nd. Paye, originally drafted by the Colts in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, showed improvement in his second year, with increased stats across key categories. Despite this progress, his performance was somewhat overshadowed by fellow players Dayo Odeyingbo and Samson Ebukam, who had comparable production levels.
Adding to the pressure, the Colts drafted Laiatu Latu in the 2024 NFL Draft, heralded as the top defensive prospect. Latu’s college performance was stellar, earning him prestigious awards, and though untested in the NFL, he poses a potential challenge to Paye’s position. Paye must meet the high expectations set for a first-round pick and establish himself as the team’s premier pass rusher to secure his place. Thus, he faces significant pressure to deliver for the Colts in the upcoming season.
Alec Pierce
Alec Pierce is embarking on his third season in the NFL. While his debut year showed promise, his sophomore campaign was disappointing, marked by declines in key statistics like receptions, targets, yards per game, and catch percentage. Expected to complement Michael Pittman Jr. when drafted in 2022’s second round, Pierce has yet to meet those expectations.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Colts opted for Adonai Mitchell in the second round, a dynamic receiver from the University of Texas. Mitchell’s impressive stats from 2023 in the Big 12, including top 10 finishes in touchdowns, receiving yards, and receptions, coupled with his outstanding athleticism showcased by a 4.34-second 40-yard dash, make him a standout prospect. Many see the Colts’ selection of Mitchell as a steal given his athletic prowess.
This places Alec Pierce under scrutiny, particularly regarding whether he can match Mitchell’s athleticism and explosiveness. With the second wide receiver position up for grabs in 2024, Pierce faces pressure to perform at a high level to secure his spot on the team.