Entering the offseason, the Colts knew exactly what they had to do to improve in 2016 (besides putting Andrew Luck in extra padding). They had to shore up the offensive line. The Colts did so in the draft, spending three picks in the first five rounds on offensive linemen. Center Ryan Kelly was the top pick of the bunch and will be the starter in the middle of the line with La’Raven Clark battling at right tackle and Joe Haeg at left guard. An improved line should help keep Luck upright and healthy, which is when the Colts are at their best — shocking, right? The defense, on the other hand, remains relatively the same with the exception of the secondary. Cornerback Patrick Robinson was a valuable free agent addition, while rookie T.J. Green will likely start at safety with Clayton Geathers injured. Chuck Pagano remains at the helm after his January extension, keeping the coaching staff consistent.
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Last season was proof that each and every Colts season hinges on Luck’s health. If he’s not on the field, Indianapolis is doomed. Luck hasn’t had the best training camp, but he’s the most important player on the roster. FANTASY SPIN
The Colts had high hopes for Dorsett as a rookie in 2015, but he never materialized into a weapon on offense. He should see an increased role this season as one of the top three receivers.
With presumed starter Geathers injured, the Colts will likely turn to the rookie Green at one of the starting safety spots. He’s a terrific athlete but is still raw in coverage, so he’ll need to learn quickly. He should be an impactful player in 2016.
Now entering his 12th season, Frank Gore’s rushing totals have decreased in back-to-back years. Also, his yards-per-carry average fell from 4.3 in 2014 to 3.7 in 2015. He's still the No. 1 back in Indy, but how much fantasy value he still has remains to be seen. He could be a good value pick — or a complete bust.
(All lines courtesy of Bovada.com, as of 8/31)
Season win total over/under: 9.5 (over +160, under -200)
Odds to win the Super Bowl: 25/1. A bet on the Colts to miss the playoffs (+130) makes more sense than one on Indianapolis to win the Super Bowl. Andrew Luck should be back to 100 percent this season, but a return to form is by no means guaranteed. Beyond that, there's just not enough talent here on either side of the ball to consider the Colts a championship contender.
One thing we wish we could bet on: Andrew Luck breaking an opponent's heart with a last-second comeback win. Even if Luck does struggle at times this year, you can count on him to seize victory from the jaws of defeat once or twice in any given season. The only question is which team will be the unfortunate victim.
September 18, at Denver
After a date with the Lions, the Colts visit Denver for a meeting with the defending champs. Assuming the Colts win in Week 1, a win over the Broncos would move Indianapolis to 2-0 with a handful of easy games in the following weeks.
November 6, at Green Bay
Just before their bye, the Colts head to Green Bay. This is a pivotal game against Aaron Rodgers and the reloaded Packers. The schedule leading up to this one isn’t exactly daunting, so the Colts could go into the bye with a record around 8-1 depending on this one.
December 24, at Oakland
The Raiders are going to surprise people this season, and could shock the Colts in Week 16. If healthy, the Colts should be in front in the AFC South with a win over the Raiders possibly clinching a playoff berth.
We say: 10-6, Wild Card round playoff loss
WhatIfSports simulation says: 9-7, Wild Card round playoff loss
— Cam DaSilva, Andrew Lynch (betting), Adam Meyer (fantasy)
