Preseason
2011 Roster Projections – OT Anthony Castonzo
May 7th
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The draft is over, and with the lockout back in place the only thing to do is study draft picks. This is one of the few drafts where almost every pick gives the Colts a player who looks like he could see significant time in the coming year — sans injuries. From Anthony Castonzo to Delone Carter, each of the Colts top four selections shows something that either has been missing from the team, or a new wrinkle that could have a significant impact on how the team operates in 2011. First, let’s take a look at the Colts first round selection, offensive tackle Anthony Castonzo out of Boston College. More >
AFC South: Regular and Postseason Predictions
Sep 12th
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The season is here, so naturally it is time to look ahead to the playoffs. No? This eight-part series takes a look at each division and discusses the outlook for every team in the NFL — in both the regular season and playoffs.
AFC SOUTH
TEAM: Indianapolis Colts
RECORD: 15-1 | Win Division
REASON: The Indianapolis Colts have only gotten better since last season when they went to the Super Bowl so why not 15-1? Some will bring up that Bill Polian will rest players the last two games, but he may not be to. There will be division games at the end of the season, which could mean that no matter their record is they will have to play there starters, or at least most of them. There are two big additions that can really help the Colts this season. The first is safety Bob Sanders; if he stays healthy it will be a huge boost to the defense. On offense the Colts obviously have Manning, but he has outstanding targets in Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark, Austin Collie, Pierre Garçon, and returning former first round pick Anthony Gonzalez. The team’s weakness is the offensive line, it will be the dominant area of concern for the team and fans throughout the season. More >
NFC East: Regular and Postseason Predictions
Sep 11th
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The season is here, so naturally it is time to look ahead to the playoffs. No? This eight-part series takes a look at each division and discusses the outlook for every team in the NFL — in both the regular season and playoffs.
NFC EAST
TEAM: Philadelphia Eagles
RECORD: 10-6 | Win Division
REASON: Even after trading away quarterback Donovan McNabb, the Philadelphia Eagles should be able to thrive with the pieces around new quarterback Kevin Kolb. Kolb has only started two games in his career, but he has shown a lot of promise, displayed poise, and has a strong arm. The talent of players like tight end Brent Celek and wide receiver DeSean Jackson will certainly benefit Kolb in his new role. The Eagles also boast a solid defense, which will help keep the ball in Kolb’s hands and keep him out of holes on the scoreboard. More >
AFC West: Regular and Postseason Predictions
Sep 10th
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The season is here, so naturally it is time to look ahead to the playoffs. No? This eight-part series takes a look at each division and discusses the outlook for every team in the NFL — in both the regular season and playoffs.
AFC WEST
TEAM: San Diego Chargers
RECORD: 12-4 | Win the Division
REASON: Although the Chargers appeared to be a team on the decline last year, that should change in 2010. Their defense is still respectable, although they do have some concerns along the defensive line. Offensively, the Chargers have lost LaDainian Tomlinson, once the best rusher in the league, but one who seems to have lost his legs. They drafted running back Ryan Matthews to replace Tomlinson, who should reinvigorate their ground game, so long as their offensive line can hold up. The biggest advantage for the Chargers over the rest of their division is the play of quarterback Phillip Rivers. More >
AFC North: Regular and Postseason Predictions
Sep 10th
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The season is here, so naturally it is time to look ahead to the playoffs. No? This eight-part series takes a look at each division and discusses the outlook for every team in the NFL — in both the regular season and playoffs.
AFC NORTH
TEAM: Baltimore Ravens
RECORD: 13-3 | Win Division
REASON: The offensive and defensive lines are better, and they have two free agent receivers who should give quarterback Joe Flacco upgraded targets. The biggest question for Flacco’s weapons is probably at tight end because of age. On defense they still have Ray Lewis. Their biggest question-mark defensively is their cornerbacks.
TEAM: Pittsburgh Steelers
RECORD: 8-8 | No Playoffs
REASON: With quarterback Ben Roethlisberger out for at least four games it is more difficult to predict the Steelers fate. The offense will take a step back this season as they probably will not hit their stride till at least Week 7 or 8 — Roethlisberger’s four games, the bye week, and two games for him to get back in the swing of things. Their defense should be better this year with Troy Polamalu’s return. More >
Roster Watch: Doomsday COMPLETE
Sep 4th
So today is the day — it is Armageddon for a number of young players. While many probably already know their fate, it has not been announced yet. To keep track of who has been retained, and who is getting waived, a list of all the players on the team is available after the jump. As the day goes on and more is announced, their status will be updated to reflect their position on the team. If visitors learn news about a player and it has not already been updated, please share the news in a comment. Swarms of people are watching with bated breath, and with numerous sources like player twitter accounts and official sources like Adam Schefter and Phil B., it should be easy for the fans to keep this list up-to-date throughout the day. More >
The Redskins have Traded CB Justin Tryon to the Colts
Sep 4th
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Jason LaCanfora is reporting via Twitter that the Colts have acquired CB Justin Tryon from the Washington Redskins via trade. Tryon is 5-foot 9-inches tall and 185 pounds. He played college football at Arizona State and was drafted by the Redskins in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. Tryon finished the 2009 season with two starts, 22 tackles, one sack, three passes defended, and one interception. This preseason he has nine tackles, three passes defended, and one interception.
Colts Roster Prediction: Final Product
Sep 4th
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The final preseason game is in the books and several players made huge strides to convince the team that they are worthy of a roster spot.
Quarterback: Peyton Manning, Tom Brandstater
Peyton Manning is the incumbent starter for the Colts. Tom Brandstater edges out Curtis Painter for the backup position. Though you cannot read too much into preseason stats, it is hard to ignore Brandstater’s four touchdown drives and single turnover. On top of that, it does not seem as if pressure phases him and his vision is exceptional. By contrast, Curtis Painter still tends to stare down receivers and seems restless in the pocket at the slightest hint of pressure. Painter has more potential than Jim Sorgi, but there is still a long way to go before he can earn the confidence of the coaches and the fans.
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Colts Cut Defensive Tackle Marlon Favorite
Sep 3rd
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Mike Chappell of the Indy Star also reports that the Colts have waived defensive tackle Marlon Favorite. Favorite made a solid play late in the Bengals game but it was too little too late. Coltzilla wishes Favorite the best of luck moving forward.