Cooter noted that it’s “still early” and “too early” for either to apply for the gig, as is the case with all backup roles. But the Colts know there are many eyeballs on the battle.
“I think at every position, the best man can win, so whether you’re a starter or a backup or you’re in a role for a certain spot or position that could help us on Sundays, we love competition. We invite competition,” the Colts OC said. “If you’re going to earn something here, you should take advantage of it with that role.”
“We’re going to get a lot of reps as we go, and in the offseason and training camp, I’ll say a lot of those same phrases to you, but these guys are going to compete, and shoot, we want the guy that’s going to best help the Colts in whatever competition he’s in to win this thing, and we’re going to give them all those opportunities, as far as we get that stuff.”
Jones’ career has been riddled with various injuries, from ankle to hamstring, neck to knee to broken foot to Achilles. Given that he’s only played more than 14 games once in seven years, chances are the Colts will need to play their backup at some point. With Indy trying to get back to the postseason for the first time since COVID, one might suggest that a more consistent backup is a priority.
For now, Indy will step up and Leonard and Richardson will battle it out to be next in line. If neither steps up and nails the job, the Colts could be in the market to add a veteran in camp or after a final cut to secure a spot. They can’t continue to rely on four-man coaches to take their calls.