The Indianapolis Colts have a difficult job ahead of them in handling their cornerback position with Dallis Flowers and JuJu Brents out. As the team reorganizes its defense to take on the New Orleans Saints and other opponents, Kenny Moore’s crucial job at nickel will continue to be crucial.
The Indianapolis Colts have a serious issue in their secondary as they prepare for their game against the New Orleans Saints. Injury has been a major blow to the cornerback position, which already has a dearth of established candidates. The Colts are in a risky scenario because of Dallis Flowers’ season-ending ruptured Achilles and JuJu Brents’ quadriceps injury from the Cleveland loss.
Given that both players have started four games at one of the harshest spots in the NFL, it is unclear how the Colts will handle this hardship. Mike Chappell, a reporter for Fox59, wrote about this topic on Friday.
One of the NFL’s best nickel corners, Kenny Moore II, seems to have considered and quickly rejected the simple fix of moving him to the outside. Gus Bradley, the coordinator, admitted that they “looked at that,” but ultimately decided on Plan B. Bradley suggests that Moore’s exceptional worth at the nickel spot makes him too important to tamper with.
When the Colts are on base in Sunday’s game, Moore and rookie Jaylon Jones will be the outside corners. Bradley will go to “sub” packages, and Moore will assume his well-known nickel role. Jones may be opposed by practice squad corner Darren Hall, Ameer Speed, or Darrell Baker Jr. Bradley acknowledges the necessity for adaptability while making a suggestion that plans for newcomers should be made simpler.
The reasoning for Moore’s continued employment at Nickel is sound. He has done an absolutely outstanding job holding this role. Moore has accumulated an incredible stat line in his 94 games and 81 starts, with 461 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 15 interceptions, and 52 passes defensed. He has also been recognized for the 2021 Pro Bowl. Shane Steichen emphasizes how his aggressive play style gives him a flexible weapon that can be used for run support, blitzing, and coverage.
Moore’s effect against the Browns was noticeable. He ruined plays, showed incredible dexterity in dodging blocks, and came dangerously close to adding a diving interception. Bradley observes that one of his most important roles as a playmaker is his ability to read and respond to the offense’s strategy.
Moore is also a consistent figure, which is another important factor. He has been a dependable player on the field since emerging as a defensive cornerstone in 2018. In 42 of 76 starts, he has played all defensive snaps, and in 23 other games, he has played at least 90%. His versatility and self-assurance when alternating between nickel and corner contribute to his dependability.
Fans should expect a secondary that is adjusting to the problems of injury as the Colts prepare for the Saints and look forward. Moore’s experience at nickel will always be important, but the team will also need to rely on the adaptability and potential of guys like Baker, Hall, Jones, and Speed. Plans may get simplified, but the main priorities will be to minimize the effects of the injuries and make the most of the players that are available. The Colts’ fortitude and strategic acumen will be put to the test in the upcoming weeks at one of the NFL’s most taxing positions.
