Breaking: Colts may cut two rookies this Offseason

One of the most difficult aspects of an NFL offseason is seeing guys depart the team. For the Indianapolis Colts, two guys in particular have made a case for being cut this summer.

In this league, the goal is to develop a squad that will succeed, and there will be times when players do not contribute to that effort. When combined with the potential financial losses that the player may incur, it becomes clear why keeping a player may not be worthwhile.

The Indianapolis Colts may cut two players this offseason, including a tight end. Drew Ogletree

Drew Ogletree, a second-year tight end, saw significant playing time in 2023. He showed a lot of potential as a pass-catcher, recording nine grabs on 21 targets for 147 yards.

Ogletree also scored two touchdowns for the Colts, capping off a strong season. The fact that he is even being considered for release is due to off-field charges. On December 29th, the Avon Police Department announced that Ogletree was facing two felony counts for domestic assault.

There have been no fresh developments since these charges, but the Colts are aware of the potential impact on the team. Ogletree had a promising season, though not an explosive one.

Given these charges, it may be in the Colts’ best interests to cut him this offseason. Indy will keep Kylen Granson, Jelani Woods, Will Mallory, and veteran Mo Alie-Cox. Keep in mind that there is still the draft to select another tight end, as well as free agency.

WR Isaiah McKenzie

There are two key reasons why Isaiah McKenzie could be released by the Colts this summer. The first reason is that several younger players have shown potential as return specialists in their own right. Second-year cornerback Dallis Flowers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 4.

However, before to 2023, he was an excellent kickoff return specialist. In 23 returns, he averaged 31.1 yards, including an 89-yarder. With Flowers injured, rookie wide receiver Josh Downs stepped in as a return specialist, returning six punts for an average of 10.5 yards per return.

Flowers and Downs would be more appealing than McKenzie on special teams because they are productive in their respective positions in addition to being return specialists. McKenzie’s primary effect on the squad is on special teams. His production value as a wide receiver is below average.

The second reason McKenzie may not make the squad in 2024 is due to certain off-the-field concerns. The Colts suspended him for the remaining three games of the season for “conduct detrimental to the team”.

The Colts did not clarify what the action was, but it deserved a harsh consequence from the team. Cornerback Tony Brown was suspended alongside McKenzie, but was cut by the team the day after the regular season concluded.

Having athletes with off-field Conduct difficulties may be detrimental to the team’s future success.