Indianapolis Colts 2024 Season Preview and Record Prediction
2023 Record: 9-8
Shane Steichen’s first season as the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts went better than expected. The Colts finished the season with a 9-8 record and nearly won the AFC South in the season finale against the Houston Texans. The main takeaway from the 2023 campaign for Indianapolis is that the team has the right guy as the head coach in Steichen. His leadership abilities played a key role in why the Colts remained viable for a playoff berth up until the last game of the season. With 2023 first-round pick Anthony Richardson returning from an injury-plagued rookie season, expectations are high for the Colts in 2024.
Colts Offensive Outlook
When Anthony Richardson was lost for the remainder of the 2023 season with a shoulder injury, the Colts handed the reins to veteran Gardner Minshew. And shockingly, Minshew kept the Colts alive for a playoff berth. It wasn’t pretty, but the former Jaguars QB fielded his most productive season as an NFL quarterback. He closed the year by throwing for 3,305 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Overall, the Colts offense was ranked 15th in total offense, 11th in points per game, and 10th in rushing.
During free agency, Minshew signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, and former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco quickly replaced his role. On the outside, Richardson will have a strong selection of passing options to throw football in 2024. The Colts re-signed star wideout Michael Pittman Jr. to a three-year, $70 million contract extension with $46 million guaranteed when free agency kicked off in March.
During the 2024 NFL Draft, they added another weapon to join Pittman on the outside when they selected former Texas Longhorn Adonai Mitchell in the second round. On the ground, Jonathan Taylor should be able to take a ton of pressure off the Colt’s young quarterback. The expectation is that the former Wisconsin Badger will resemble his 2021 form, where he won the league’s rushing title with over 1,800 rushing yards. His last two seasons have been shortened due to battling injuries and a contract holdout.
Colts Defensive Outlook
Most of the Colts defense will be intact for the upcoming 2024 campaign. The team re-signed players such as Grover Stewart, Kenny Moore II, and Julian Blackmond during free agency. Also, two more years were added to the stout defensive lineman DeForrest Buckner’s contract. Their top priority during the free agency period, Zaire Franklin, was signed to a three-year $31.26 million extension.
During the NFL Draft, the Colts added some youth to a pass rush that was ranked near the bottom of the league when they selected former UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu with the 15th pick. Last season’s sack leader, Samson Ebukam, also returns to a unit expected to be much better heading into 2024. Former first-round pick Kwity Paye is a player to watch out for on the Colts defense. In 2023, Paye was second on the team in sacks with 8.5.
Colts Key Games in 2024
Texans (September 8th and October 27th)
Jaguars (October 6th and January 5th)
Titans (October 13 and December 22)
Dolphins
Bills
Jets
Lions
Predicted Record and Final Analysis
As the Indianapolis Colts look forward to the 2024 season, a genuine sense of optimism surrounds their potential to contend for a playoff berth and the AFC South title. However, their aspirations will hinge on three key factors:
1. The Health of Quarterback Anthony Richardson: Anthony Richardson’s availability will be paramount. The Colts’ offensive success will largely depend on his ability to stay healthy and lead the team consistently throughout the season. His physicality and dual-threat capability add a dynamic element to the Colts’ offense, making him an indispensable part of their game plan.
2. Richardson’s Ability to Effectively Produce in Steichen’s Offense: Head Coach Shane Steichen has a proven track record of developing quarterbacks. His work with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia showcased his ability to tailor an offense to a quarterback’s strengths. Similarly, Gardner Minshew’s performance as a viable starter while Richardson was injured last season demonstrated Steichen’s flexibility and innovative approach. For the Colts to reach their full potential, Richardson must adapt and thrive within Steichen’s system, effectively utilizing his arm strength and mobility.
3. The Defense’s Ability to Step Up in Crucial Games: One of the critical shortcomings of the Colts in 2023 was their defense’s inability to deliver in key moments. For the Colts to be true contenders, the defense must improve its performance in high-pressure situations. This includes creating turnovers, getting crucial stops, and maintaining consistency throughout the season. A stronger defensive showing will support Richardson and the offense and help secure victories in close games.
Based on these factors, the Indianapolis Colts are predicted to finish the 2024 season with a record of 9-8. This projection acknowledges the team’s potential for improvement and their challenges. While 9-8 might seem modest, it positions the Colts firmly in the hunt for a playoff spot. If they can overcome their key challenges, there’s a realistic possibility they can achieve a playoff berth and contend for the AFC South title.
The Colts have the pieces to significantly impact this season. By ensuring Richardson’s health, maximizing his production within Steichen’s offense, and elevating their defensive play, the Colts can turn their potential into tangible success on the field. This season will test resilience, adaptability, and growth for the Indianapolis Colts as they strive to reach the postseason and beyond.
