Despite losing their starting quarterback in the first season under a new head coach, the Indianapolis Colts were just one game shy of a playoff appearance in 2023.
With Anthony Richardson on the mend and looking ready for training camp, along with some intriguing additions made in the draft, the Colts seem primed to be a playoff contender.
In ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) projections, however, the Colts fall short of a playoff appearance for the fifth time in the last six years.
ESPN's FPI projects the Colts to finish with the No. 14 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, meaning they would fail to make the playoffs again.
MORE: 5 things to watch as Colts begin minicamp
So much of the Colts' season hinges on the development and performance of second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson. If he exceeds expectations, it may be difficult to keep them out of the playoffs. If more development is needed, they could be on the outside looking in again.
The AFC South appears to be wide open going into the 2024 season so anything can happen, but they would miss out on the postseason if the campaign went according to ESPN's projections.
For more Colts coverage, check out Kevin Hickey's work on Sporting News.
