In an overtime victory to cap off a disappointing season, the Indianapolis Colts showcased both promise and areas for concern in their 26-23 triumph over the Jacksonville Jaguars. While the win might have little immediate impact, it offered clarity on the strengths and weaknesses heading into the offseason. Here’s the final breakdown of risers and fallers from the 2024 season finale.
Risers
The Colts’ Receiving Trio
- Josh Downs, Michael Pittman Jr., and Alec Pierce combined for 18 catches and 223 yards.
- Downs: 10 catches, 94 yards.
- Pittman: 6 catches, 72 yards.
- Pierce: 2 catches, 57 yards, including a 40-yard touchdown.
- This trio has cemented itself as a versatile, dynamic unit capable of carrying the passing game in 2025. With Anthony Richardson returning under center, the Colts’ offense has a strong foundation at receiver.
Kwity Paye
- Defensive end Kwity Paye added another sack, bringing his season total to eight—a team-high for 2024.
- Beyond his sack numbers, Paye was a consistent force against the run, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Colts’ defensive line. With Laiatu Latu developing alongside him, Paye’s stock is rising heading into 2025.
Jonathan Taylor
- Jonathan Taylor capped the season with a monster performance: 34 carries for 177 yards (5.2 average) and a touchdown.
- Taylor’s 2024 campaign ends with 1,431 rushing yards and 12 total touchdowns, marking a return to dominance. His resurgence is a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster year for Indianapolis.
Fallers
Defensive Secondary
- Brian Thomas Jr. torched the Colts for 103 yards on seven catches, continuing a trend of the secondary being unable to contain top-tier receivers.
- While the Colts limited Mac Jones, their defensive backfield remains a glaring weakness, needing significant reinforcements this offseason.
AD Mitchell
- Rookie wide receiver AD Mitchell was targeted just once in the finale and finished the year with a meager 41.8% catch rate.
- While his potential remains high, Mitchell struggled with awareness and consistency throughout his debut season, falling far behind his fellow receivers.
Matt Gay
- Kicker Matt Gay missed another field goal from 50+ yards, ending the season 3/9 from long range.
- While perfect inside 50 yards (28/28), his inability to deliver in deep situations is concerning, especially for a kicker on a lucrative four-year contract.
Key Takeaways
- The Colts’ offensive core—featuring Taylor, Downs, Pittman, and Pierce—is strong and well-positioned for a more explosive 2025 campaign with a healthy Richardson.
- Defensively, Kwity Paye shines, but the secondary and overall depth need substantial improvements to contend in the AFC South.
- Special teams, particularly in the kicking game, remain a point of frustration.
Looking Ahead
The Colts head into the offseason with optimism around their offensive weapons but significant questions on defense and special teams. With a strong draft position and resources to address weaknesses, Indianapolis has an opportunity to take a leap forward in 2025. Whether they can capitalize will depend on how effectively the front office and coaching staff address these glaring needs.
