3) Fili Moala. A few hours after the Colts lost their preseason finale Thursday, Moala – a second-year defensive tackle – was arrested for driving while intoxicated. There was speculation about the incident leading to Moala's release, but that wasn't likely and didn't happen. The Colts have a low tolerance for such issues, but they always have had a nice balance with that and with a willingness to provide second chances for situations that don't seem to be habitual, out-of-control situations. There's no evidence to suggest Moala is in the latter category. The guess here is the main story about Moala will continue to be whether or not be can develop into a big-time tackle. He seemed to play better this preseason than last, and made the team's 53-man roster. He should provide depth at an improving position, and his development could continue to be key for the defensive line.
4) Homegrown. Devin Moore made the Colts' roster as the kick and punt returner, and far more important to the Colts than his status as an Indianapolis native was the knack he showed for the big play against the Buffalo Bills in the second preseason game. Also important to the Colts at the returner position is the ability to secure the ball, which the Colts value more than the ability to break the long return. A muffed punt by Brandon James may have hurt the former University of Florida star, because the Colts do not want to lose possessions because of special teams errors, but the feeling here is James may still contribute to the Colts. They signed him on Sunday to the practice squad, and around Indianapolis practice squad guys often end up contributing.
5) The cut list. There weren't any huge surprises among the Colts' releases Saturday, particularly when factoring in the practice-squad signings announced Sunday. Brandstater looked good at times, but except when the team kept Painter last season, keeping a third quarterback hasn't been the norm. Offensive tackle Adam Terry, who signed as a free agent in the off-season, never looked mobile or fit enough to make a contribution, and while wide receivers Sam Giguere and Taj Smith had had moments, it was no surprise they weren't retained. The team signed not only Chick, Brandstater, Brandon James, safety Mike Newton and wide receiver Blair White to the practice squad. It wouldn't be surprising to see Chick or James contribute this season, and Brandstater can serve as the third quarterback.
Comments
Would like to know if Sorgi had looked as terrible as Painter in the 1st 2 seasons of his backup duties..... please?
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