3 Colts Exceed Expectations in 2024

The Indianapolis Colts are 2-2 after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1) at home on Sunday, 27-24. With many stories unfolding after the victory, when thinking about the Colts in 2024, it’s important to consider the unsung heroes who performed against expectations.

With this topic in mind, let’s take a look at three players who have become leaders in four games, exceeding all expectations previously placed on them.

Nickname Cross | Security

Colts safety Nick Cross is playing football under the lights this year. The three-year pro is currently tied with linebacker EJ Speed ​​for the most tackles in the NFL (47). But Cross isn’t just a tackling machine, he’s also responsible for one of the greatest plays against the Steelers when he took the ball away from winger George Pickens for a fumble recovery.

Cross had many doubts heading into the 2024 offseason, but he gained the trust of his teammates and showed himself on the pitch. In a recent interview with Indianapolis on SIJake Arthur, Cross discussed his success so far.

The more you do something, the more comfortable you feel and the more your skills show up. Comfort builds self-confidence, and ultimately it has so far.

– Nickname Cross | Colts safety

In 2023, Cross was on a roll, but was thrust into a starring role alongside Julian Blackmon. Cross has already exceeded his expectations and looks like a long-term solution for Gus Bradley. We’ll see if the former Maryland Terrapin can continue his hot start to the 2024 regular season.

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Will Fries | Guardian

Right guard Will Fries destroyed his seventh-round tag (2021 NFL Draft-Penn State). So far in 2024, Fries has Professional focus on football overall block rating 84.8 (leads the team). In addition to his overall rating, his pass blocking (74.6) has improved significantly, as well as his phenomenal run blocking (82.0 – leads on the team).

At this point, Fries is guaranteeing himself a new contract if the Colts can afford his services beyond 2024. Through the first four games, Fries is ranked second overall PFF behind James Daniels of the Steelers (92.9), showing consistency, strength and finesse. His teammates will vouch for him, as will position coach Tony Sparano Jr., who had this to say AI Arthur.

I believed Will was a very good player since I arrived last year. I just saw some of the things he did last season and how he improved. Will’s one thing is that he is a tireless worker; he will do everything in his power to maximize everything he has.

– Tony Sparano Jr. | Colts coach OL

Jaylon Jones | Corner

Through four games, linebacker Jaylon Jones has established himself as a legitimate starter for the Colts. After a knee injury forced fellow defenseman JuJu Brents to go on injured reserve, more pressure and responsibility fell on the 22-year-old. While Jones was an above-average performer last year as a rookie, few expected him to take a step forward without players like Brents and Kenny Moore II.

Looking back at Jones’ incredible performance against the Chicago Bears shows what he can do. Jones was dominant with 2 interceptions, as many passes defensed, and 5 tackles. Here’s what Jones had to say about his AFC Defensive Player of the Week performance.

Man, that’s a blessing. It’s a blessing. The guys have been just in my ear the whole last week and I really can’t thank my trainers and vets anymore. Like I said, just bliss.

– Jaylon Jones | Colts cornerback

While steals and coverage are good, Jones also posted a solid 75.7 PFF activate the defense stage. If Jones can continue to play at this level and elevate his level, he could become one of the more reliable defenders of Indy’s future given his young age.

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