The AFC Champion Indianapolis Colts checked into Anderson University Sunday, later to begin two-a-days Monday morning. The team returned to Anderson for just the first time since 1998. The only player on the current roster that was on that team—is none other than number 18.
The players reported Sunday including kicker Pat McAfee. He was one of the few players to take time to sign autographs for the many fans on hand. A classy move but a young talent.
Reggie Wayne and Robert Mathis both checked-in on Sunday by the 2 P.M. despite hoping for contract resolutions. Both Wayne and Mathis believe they are under paid and skipped offseason organized team activities (OTA’s), in hopes of cashing in. Today number 87 and 98 were back on the field and didn’t miss a beat. Wayne spoke openly about the disruptions in the offseason, but believed it was imperative for him to not abandon his teammates like they both did in the offseason. Any time away from the team would just put the team in jeopardy.
Many veterans players Caldwell said, will not participate in every drill, intending to minimize their reps and decrease their chance of injury. Those not participating in both practices include Joseph Addai, Bob Sanders, Clint Session, Gary Brackett, Jeff Saturday and rookie Ray Fisher.
Bob Sanders returned to the field today and said he believed he was 100% for the first time in awhile. Sanders missed the majority of last season with a torn biceps. He has missed 49 of 96 games over his 6 NFL seasons. The interesting move will be after this season. Sanders must prove to the Colts that he can make an impact on the field and stay injury free. He is due to make over $2.5 million this season but that jumps to $5 next season. An early exit in the season may force the Colts to part ways.
The other big injury last season was wide-out Anthony Gonzalez. He injured his right knee and then slowly recovered. K Adam Vinatieri was also limited last year which forced the Colts to sign Matt Stover. Vinatieri sat out multiple weeks after arthroscopic surgery. Let’s hope the pricey but clutch veteran will return with a golden boot.
Meanwhile this is also Jim Caldwell’s second-year as Head Coach of the Colts. Last season he had a very good idea of what he was getting into under the guidance of Tony Dungy. However nothing is better than true experience and his first year under his belt.
“Obviously it’s that time of year,’’ coach Jim Caldwell said. “We don’t have any time to waste.’’
Every player was on hand for practice Monday morning except first round draft pick Jerry Hughes. The rookie defensive end agreed to a deal with the Colts around noon Monday, then drove up to Anderson to sign his five-year deal worth $12.6 million with $7 million in guarantees. He then dressed and participated in the afternoon session. Hughes said he looks to learn in the steps of Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.
“I’ve got a great opportunity in my young years to learn from two of the greatest defensive ends. I’ll be able to pick their brains, watch film with them and just really learn.’’
The Colts will go hard at it all week, take Sunday off—only to continue all next week. The Colts first preseason game is Sunday, August 15th against San Francisco at Lucas Oil Stadium.