The Indianapolis Colts are just a few weeks away from the official start of training camp—which is slated to begin on July 25 following the arrival of rookies and veterans earlier that week.
While plenty of eyes will be on the big names like Andrew Luck and Darius Leonard, there will also be a handful of under-the-radar players to keep an eye on when training camp commences.
Here are five under-the-radar Colts to watch at training camp:
LB E.J. Speed
Though he was somewhat of a surprise selection during the draft, Speed has a solid profile in terms of size and athleticism after posting some impressive numbers during his pro day at Tarleton State.
While he will be working behind Darius Leonard as the WILL lineabcker and no one expects an upset there, Speed will be a rookie to watch once training camp begins to see how the Colts plan on using him.
OL Joe Haeg
To Colts fans, Haeg is far from under the radar. He’s been around since being selected in the 2016 NFL Draft, but he didn’t hold a major role during the 2018 season. With some of the depth spots in the offensive line up for grabs, Haeg should be someone to keep an eye on.
With his positional versatility to work either as an offensive tackle on both sides or working on the inside at the guard positions, there is some value to be had. With so many spots open, Haeg could solidify a reserve role behind the starters.
WR Penny Hart
There are a lot of wide receivers to keep an eye on during training camp. A lot. But Hart should be one to watch after he signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent.
Despite his size (5’8, 180), Hart is an intriguing playmaker that could give the rest of the room a run for its money in the wide receiver competition. He recorded two seasons over 1,000 yards to go along with 19 receiving touchdowns during his time at Georgia State.
There are many names to watch, and Hart should be one of them.
S George Odum
Though Malik Hooker and Clayton Geathers—when healthy—will be the starters in the safety room, there are a few spots still up for grabs as rotational pieces in the secondary.
While fourth-round pick Khari Willis will garner some attention, Odum shouldn’t be forgotten about either. An undrafted free agent in 2018, Odum didn’t see a whole lot of time on the defensive side of the ball, but he proved to be a valuable asset in limited work.
There are a few names battling for the final two spots in the safety room.
CB Jalen Collins
The cornerback position is likely to have the most competition throughout the roster. Though Pierre Desir and Kenny Moore lead the group, there are a few names to keep in mind—especially Collins.
The Colts signed Collins following the end of his 10-game suspension in 2018, but he spent the rest of the time on the practice squad still getting back into things. He’s immensely talented when on the field, but his history of suspensions has kept him from showing that talent.
The cornerback room should be fun to watch during training camp, especially if Collins can continue his strong performance from the spring.
