Several injuries happened this year, especially to the Colts’ rookie class. The team selected 12 through the 2023 NFL Draft, but five would suffer season-ending injuries before the regular season or during the campaign. Below are the first-year players who were impacted:

• Quarterback Anthony Richardson: AC Joint Sprain (four games played)
• Safety Daniel Scott: Torn ACL (no games played)
• Running Back Evan Hull: Torn Meniscus (one game played)
• Linebacker Titus Leo: Knee (no games played)
• Offensive Tackle Jake Witt: Hip (no games played)

As displayed, three out of the five injured rookies didn’t see the field. However, other new additions played important roles for the team. Below are the players at key positions, along with games played and notable metrics from the season:

• Cornerback JuJu Brents: 9 games; 43 tackles; 6 passes defended; 1 interception
• Wide Receiver Josh Downs: 17 games; 68 catches; 771 yards; 30 first downs
• Offensive Tackle Blake Freeland: 14 games; 701 snaps played (131 left, 568 right)
• Tight End Will Mallory: 12 games; 18 catches; 207 yards; 69.2% catch efficiency
• Cornerback Jaylon Jones: 17 games; 44 tackles; 5 passes defended; 57.3 coverage grade (per Pro Football Focus)

These rookies were thrust into starting roles throughout the year. This has to give Steichen and Indy’s front office a lot of confidence going into 2024. This is especially true if the injuries can be limited with their 2023, and new draft picks.