The Indianapolis Colts wrap up the preseason Thursday night with a road trip to Paul Brown Stadium to take on the Cincinnati Bengals after what was a crazy weekend involving Andrew Luck’s retirement.
While that news is still going to dominate the headlines, there is still a game to be played and roster spots to be fought for Thursday night. This is the final game in which roster bubble players will fight for their right to be on the 53-man roster.
Here are the top position battles to keep an eye on Thursday night:
Cornerback
A position that has been under the microscope since the spring workouts, the Colts are seeing the room take shape. But there are still a final few spots that will be left up for grabs on Thursday night.
We know Pierre Desir, Kenny Moore, Rock Ya-Sin and Quincy Wilson have virtual locks on roster spots. If the Colts keep six cornerbacks—as predicted this preseason—the final two spots will feature a battle between Chris Milton, Marvell Tell, Nate Hairston and Jalen Collins.
Each one has unique traits and each one has their own flaws. Special teams work will be a big part of the final two spots, and it will be interesting to see who makes it.
Wide receiver
Like the cornerback position, this is a roster spot that has been heavily monitored—even if we know the majority of the players that will make the final cuts.
Among those virtually locked into place include T.Y. Hilton, Devin Funchess, Parris Campbell and Chester Rogers. Some might be surprised about Rogers being included, but Frank Reich has stated that he’s the team’s punt returner. That should give him a strong chance to make the roster.
The final one or two spots, depending on how many they keep, will be between Deon Cain, Zach Pascal, Marcus Johnson and Krishawn Hogan.
Tight end
The Colts will have to keep four tight ends on the roster if this competition is to even mean anything, but there is still an intriguing battle going on between undrafted rookie Hale Hentges and the uber-athletic Ross Travis.
Both have had solid showings in the preseason and have made their case to be on the roster—should the Colts decide to keep four tight ends. But they’ve also had their share of down moments.
Regardless, the Colts are going to have to make a decision between both players whether it is for the active roster or the practice squad.
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