​With training camp drawing closer for the Indianapolis Colts, we typically assemble a 53-man roster projection based on what we’ve learned during the offseason programs. We’ll continue that process, but the format will be different this year. Instead of packing every position group into a single piece, we’ll dedicate a full article to one unit before presenting our overall predictions at the end.
Up next is the wide receiver group. Pierce and Downs will lead the way at wide receiver, and Dulin appears to be the frontrunner for the Colts’ WR3 role. Even if Dulin doesn’t win that job, he’s almost certainly headed for the roster. Over the years, he has been a core special teams contributor and a willing blocker in the run game, which holds significant value for head coach Shane Steichen.
Some teams carry five wide receivers, but I expect the Colts to keep six. That would leave four players competing for just three roster spots. In addition to Dulin, the contenders for the WR3 role include Treadwell, Westbrook-Ikhine, and Burks. Anthony Gould is also on the roster as a return man and a backup option from the slot.
The players in the mix are: Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, Ashton Dulin, Deion Burks, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and Laquon Treadwell. For me, the deciding factor for the final roster spot comes down to Treadwell versus Gould. I ultimately lean toward Treadwell because he can impact the game in more ways, with the ability to line up outside and contribute to multiple special teams units. Gould’s roles are more easily replaceable, with Burks capable of handling slot snaps if needed — and we’ve seen the Colts adopt a committee approach when Downs has been out. Additionally, Burks, Downs, and Dulin are all capable returners as well.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts pre-training camp 53-man roster prediction: Wide receiver.