The 2008 season for the Indianapolis Colts is the team’s 56th season in the NFL. They will try to improve on their 13-3 record from 2007, which has little to improve on, except that they hope to repeat their impressive season record, but this time win the divisional round, the playoffs and the Super Bowl. Perhaps the team was still shaky playing in its new home at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Maybe Peyton Manning slipped on a spill?) Fans are still raving about the 2008 draft pick, though.
This year, the Colts selected the following players to join the dominant NFL team: Arizona center Mike Pollak, Georgia linebacker Phililp Wheeler, Kentucky tight end Jacon Tamme, Georgia linebacker Marcus Howard, tight Tom Santi of Virginia, center Steve Justice of Wake Forest, running back Mike Hart, wide receiver Pierre Garcon of Mount Union and center Jamey Richard of Buffalo. How did NFL fans fare with these draft picks?
Mike Pollak has been viewed as a productive pick at center guard, a necessity given the shortage of starting guards and one who could fit in admirably with the rest of the Colts’ team. Philip Wheeler was well reviewed as he is predicted to perform well in the play zone given his agility. On the other hand, he has been questioned about his one-on-one coverage skills. Marcus Howard may be smaller than the average linebacker, but he’s gotten rave reviews for his play and experience. Tom Santi received mixed reviews, as he obviously has the size for success, but may be limited to goal-line or blocking situations. Some question why he was chosen, while others are confident that he held an important position.
Steven Justice received generally high ratings and no big risk. Operating with a low profile at first, he will be groomed for success and will eventually fit in with the Colts for the long haul. Mike Hart was responsible for some impressive feats in college, although he is relatively small compared to other players and not as fast as lightning. He has yet to be tested at the college level for catching and blocking, so it remains to be seen how he will respond to the tough interaction at center. Pierre Garcon also divides the fans as his offense is still untested and his height is below average. However, at the amateur level he had more than 60 receptions, 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns. That leaves Jamey Richard as the final pick, a huge talent at the University of Buffalo, weighing in at 300 pounds and standing at 6’4. He could be a welcome center.
Will these draft picks help the Colts win the Super Bowl again? Critics pointed to the team’s defensive problems, as well as the need for a stronger cornerback team. However, the 2008 draft picks have plenty of buzz about the Colts’ chances this season, not to mention the consistently great performances of returning players like Anthony Gonzalez and Peyton Manning. The Indianapolis Colts are still favorites to win the Super Bowl in the starting standings, so don’t bet against them!