Indianapolis Colts Acknowledge They Can’t Be Done Adding to Offensive Line
The offensive line is one of the most crucial units in any NFL team, often serving as the foundation upon which a successful offense is built. For the Indianapolis Colts, the offensive line has been both a strength and a source of frustration in recent years. While there have been stretches of dominance from the unit, the Colts have also faced challenges in maintaining consistency and keeping their quarterbacks protected, especially as they transition to developing a young signal-caller like Anthony Richardson. As a result, the team has recently acknowledged that they cannot be done adding pieces to the offensive line, recognizing the importance of continued investment in this pivotal area.
In this article, we will dive deep into why the Colts’ offensive line is a key focus for the team moving forward, explore the team’s current situation, and discuss how they can continue to bolster their offensive line to build a competitive, sustainable offense. We’ll also analyze how improving the offensive line will benefit their young quarterback, enhance their running game, and impact their playoff aspirations.
The Importance of the Offensive Line for the Colts
Before exploring why the Colts are looking to continue adding to their offensive line, it’s essential to understand the role the unit plays in the team’s overall offensive strategy. For the Indianapolis Colts, the offensive line isn’t just a necessary evil—it’s a cornerstone of their offensive philosophy.
A Balanced Offensive System
Under head coach Shane Steichen, the Colts are looking to build a more balanced and dynamic offense. Steichen, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, has a history of implementing a system that emphasizes both the running and passing game. For this system to succeed, the offensive line must be capable of both establishing a solid run game and providing the necessary protection for the quarterback in the passing game.
In Indianapolis, this balance is critical because the team has an emerging young quarterback in Anthony Richardson. While Richardson has the raw talent and physical tools to succeed, he is still a work in progress. A strong offensive line that can protect him and create running lanes will give him the best chance to develop and succeed in his early years. A good offensive line, therefore, is a key part of the Colts’ plan to support Richardson’s development as he grows into the team’s long-term franchise quarterback.
The Need for Consistency
In the NFL, success often comes down to consistency, and for the Colts, their offensive line has had its ups and downs in recent years. While the unit has shown flashes of dominance, there have been stretches where protection has faltered, leading to problems in both the running and passing game.
For example, in the 2023 season, the Colts’ offensive line showed potential but also struggled with injuries and consistency. Veteran players like Quenton Nelson, Ryan Kelly, and Braden Smith are all capable of playing at a high level, but the team has faced issues in maintaining continuity due to injuries and lack of depth. For a team with playoff aspirations, this inconsistency cannot continue. Adding further depth and potential starters is crucial to ensuring the line can perform at a high level week in and week out, especially as they continue to build around a young quarterback and revamp their offensive game plan.
The Current State of the Colts’ Offensive Line
Heading into the 2025 season, the Indianapolis Colts’ offensive line is built around a solid group of veterans who can still be dominant when healthy and playing at their best. However, the team’s depth and overall long-term planning need to be addressed to ensure sustained success. Let’s take a look at the key players on the line:
1. Quenton Nelson – Left Guard
Arguably the best player on the Colts’ offensive line, Quenton Nelson is a cornerstone of the unit. Drafted sixth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, Nelson has quickly established himself as one of the league’s elite offensive guards. His ability to control the line of scrimmage and create running lanes for the Colts’ running backs has made him an integral part of their offensive success.
However, Nelson is not immune to injury, and in recent seasons, he has dealt with some health concerns that have limited his ability to play at his usual high level. Despite this, when healthy, Nelson remains one of the most dominant interior offensive linemen in the league. The Colts will need him to stay healthy and continue playing at an elite level to anchor their offensive line.
2. Ryan Kelly – Center
Ryan Kelly, the Colts’ center, is another veteran leader who has been an important part of the line. Kelly, drafted in 2016, is known for his ability to make quick decisions at the line of scrimmage and for his leadership on the field. Like Nelson, Kelly has battled through injuries in recent years, and while he remains a solid starter, the team may need to look for a potential successor or depth pieces to account for any future injury concerns.
3. Braden Smith – Right Tackle
Braden Smith is another key player on the Colts’ offensive line who has the ability to be a strong contributor at the tackle position. A second-round pick in 2018, Smith has shown versatility and reliability on the right side of the line, and he provides solid pass protection and run blocking. However, like many players on the line, Smith has had to deal with injuries that have caused some inconsistency in his play. A healthy Smith is crucial for the Colts to maintain balance and keep Anthony Richardson upright in the pocket.
4. Left Tackle – A Key Position to Address
The left tackle position is currently a major point of concern for the Colts. Although the team has tried different players at the spot, they have struggled to find a consistent answer. Left tackle is one of the most important positions on the field, as it is responsible for protecting the quarterback’s blind side. The Colts will need to make this position a priority in either the draft or through free agency to solidify the line and ensure that Anthony Richardson’s development isn’t hampered by inadequate protection.
In recent seasons, the Colts have experimented with different options at left tackle, but none of them have truly solidified themselves as a long-term solution. The team will need to find someone who can provide stability and be a dominant force on the left side of the line.
5. Depth and Development
Beyond the starters, the Colts have dealt with depth issues along the offensive line. Injuries to key players like Nelson and Kelly have highlighted the importance of having capable backups who can step in and perform at a high level. The Colts have some young players with potential, but they will need to continue adding quality depth to ensure that the line remains intact even if injuries strike.
The team’s front office and coaching staff will likely prioritize drafting or signing depth pieces in the coming years, particularly for the interior and tackle positions, to provide greater security for the offense.
The Importance of Adding to the Offensive Line
Given the current state of the Colts’ offensive line, it’s clear that they cannot afford to be complacent. Although the starting group has strong pieces, the team’s depth and some specific positions still require attention. The Colts’ decision to acknowledge that they can’t be done adding to the offensive line is a smart one, and it reflects their long-term vision of building a competitive team.
Protecting the Franchise Quarterback
One of the primary reasons the Colts must continue to add to the offensive line is to protect their franchise quarterback, Anthony Richardson. Richardson is a young, talented signal-caller with immense potential, but his development could be stunted if he is constantly under pressure. A solid offensive line is essential for giving Richardson the time and comfort to read defenses, make throws, and grow as a player.
The Colts’ offensive line needs to be a unit that not only protects Richardson but also creates opportunities for him to succeed. A well-protected Richardson will have the ability to push the ball downfield, make quick decisions, and gain confidence in the pocket. In contrast, a shaky offensive line can cause even the most talented quarterbacks to struggle.
Enhancing the Running Game
The Colts have a strong history of relying on their running game, and with running back Jonathan Taylor (assuming he remains with the team) leading the charge, they will look to establish a powerful rushing attack. A dominant offensive line is key to this strategy, as the unit will need to create consistent running lanes for Taylor and the other backs on the roster. Without a strong offensive line, the Colts will struggle to maintain offensive balance, and their running game could falter.
Moreover, the ability to run the ball effectively can help Richardson by taking pressure off him in passing situations. A good running game sets up play-action passes, which Richardson can utilize to get more comfortable and make easier throws.
Building for the Future
The Colts understand that their offensive line needs to be built for the long term. Adding new pieces, whether through the draft, free agency, or player development, will help ensure that the team is competitive not just in 2025, but in the years to come. The team’s future success hinges on a foundation that includes a dominant, cohesive offensive line, and it is crucial for the Colts to continue investing in this unit to ensure sustained success.
Potential Moves to Address the Offensive Line
The Colts have several ways they can continue to improve their offensive line moving forward. Whether through the draft, free agency, or internal development, the team has the flexibility to address their needs in various ways.
Drafting for the Offensive Line
One of the most likely routes for the Colts to address their offensive line is through the 2025 NFL Draft. The draft will provide an opportunity to select a top-tier prospect at left tackle, guard, or center who can contribute immediately or develop into a future starter.
There are several talented offensive line prospects in the 2025 draft class who could make an immediate impact. The Colts may look for a player who can step in and start right away, particularly at left tackle, where they have had ongoing issues. A strong draft class could provide the team with the tools needed to solidify the line for the foreseeable future.
Free Agency and Trades
In addition to the draft, the Colts may also explore free agency or trade opportunities to acquire an experienced offensive lineman who can provide immediate help. Free-agent tackles or guards with starting experience could provide the stability the team needs to protect Richardson and enhance the running game.
While the free-agent market for offensive linemen can sometimes be expensive, the Colts may be in a position to make a splash if the right player becomes available. A strategic trade could also help address the left tackle position or add depth to the interior of the line.
The Indianapolis Colts’ acknowledgment that they cannot be done adding to their offensive line is a reflection of the team’s understanding that this area remains vital to their future success. With a young quarterback like Anthony Richardson, a dominant offensive line is essential to his development and the overall effectiveness of the offense. By continuing to invest in the offensive line, whether through the draft, free agency, or internal development, the Colts are taking the necessary steps to build a balanced, competitive team that can challenge for playoff spots in the coming seasons. The offensive line will continue to be a critical component of the Colts’ rebuild, and ensuring it remains a strength will go a long way toward achieving the team’s ultimate goals.
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