Following their preseason showdown with the Denver Broncos on Sunday, the Indianapolis Colts made a couple of notable roster moves on Monday, which have fans buzzing. The Colts claimed running back Demetric Felton off waivers and parted ways with UDFA running back Trent Pennix, who was waived/injured. This strategic shift comes as no surprise given the recent injury woes within the team's backfield.
Let’s dive into the details of these moves and what they mean for the Colts as they navigate through their preseason preparations.
Roster Shake-Up: Colts Claim Demetric Felton
With a roster that’s had its fair share of injuries, the addition of Demetric Felton is a significant move. Pennix's exit due to a groin injury and Trey Sermon's hamstring issues had already left the Colts short on running back depth. Before bringing Felton on board, the team was down to just four running backs, which isn't nearly enough to handle the intense demands of upcoming joint practices and the remainder of the preseason.
Felton, who was a sixth-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2021 after a standout career at UCLA, brings a fresh burst of energy to the Colts’ backfield. His recent release from the Chicago Bears opened the door for Indianapolis to snap him up off waivers.
Career Overview: What to Expect from Felton
Demetric Felton's NFL journey so far has seen him spend time exclusively with the Browns between 2021 and 2022. During those seasons, he appeared in 24 games, mostly showcasing his skills as a versatile pass catcher rather than a traditional running back. While his rushing numbers aren't jaw-dropping—just eight carries for 20 yards—his receiving stats tell a different story. Felton has racked up 20 receptions on 26 targets, amassing 181 yards and scoring twice.
This ability to contribute in the passing game is crucial for the Colts. Felton is adept at lining up both out wide and in the slot, making him a versatile asset for the team's offense. Whether the Colts need a quick outlet pass or a reliable checkdown option, Felton's got the chops to fill those roles effectively.
Special Teams Contributions: A Versatile Asset
In addition to his offensive potential, Felton's special teams experience is another asset for the Colts. Over his two years in the league, he's logged 247 special teams snaps, which includes 10 kick return attempts and 39 punt return attempts. His averages—18.3 yards per kickoff return and 6.9 yards per punt return—suggest he can provide a spark in the return game. This versatility could be particularly valuable during training camp, especially while Josh Downs is sidelined.
The Impact of Injuries: Depth and Strategy
The Colts’ decision to bring in Felton is a direct response to the injury situation impacting their roster. With Pennix out and Sermon’s status uncertain, having an additional running back in the mix helps alleviate some of the immediate pressure. The timing of this move is crucial as the team gears up for joint practices and additional preseason games that will test their roster depth.
What Lies Ahead for the Colts
As the Colts move forward, Felton's presence could become a key factor in their offensive and special teams schemes. His ability to contribute as a pass catcher and return specialist offers a valuable layer of flexibility that could prove beneficial in various game situations. The Colts’ coaching staff will likely experiment with how best to utilize Felton’s skills, potentially finding new ways to integrate him into their game plan.
In conclusion, the Colts' roster moves reflect a strategic approach to managing player health and enhancing team depth. By bringing in Demetric Felton, they add a versatile piece to their puzzle who can impact both the offense and special teams. As preseason progresses, keep an eye on how Felton’s role evolves and the impact he has on the team’s overall performance.
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