As the rain subsided and the clouds began to clear over the football fields at Grand Park, the Indianapolis Colts wrapped up their 2024 training camp in Westfield, Indiana. Attention now shifts to their upcoming preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday.
This second preseason game will be quite different from their first matchup against the Denver Broncos, as head coach Shane Steichen announced after Thursday’s practice that the starters and backup quarterback Joe Flacco will not be playing.
“They got the bulk of the work in these last two days,” Steichen said, referring to the joint practices with the Cardinals. “So the twos and threes will go.”
Steichen used a similar approach in the 2023 preseason, where the starters were also rested for the second game against the Chicago Bears.
Despite not playing, the starters will still be mentally engaged. Quarterback Anthony Richardson said, “I’m going to focus on leadership and making sure I’m still tuned into the game. Although I’m not playing, there’s still things I can learn from just watching.”
Saturday’s game will be an opportunity for young players like Richardson to absorb valuable lessons and for veteran starters to share their experience and guidance with those still trying to make their mark.
During the Colts’ first preseason game, wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. offered support to rookie Adonai Mitchell, congratulating him on his first catch and reminding him that every catch is a victory.
“I was just kind of instilling confidence, easing his nerves,” Pittman said on Wednesday. “He was nervous going into his first game, and getting that first catch was a big deal for him. I wanted him to know he’s good enough to win every single matchup.”
The bond between Pittman and Mitchell has grown since Mitchell was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Mitchell sees Pittman as a mentor and role model, while Pittman has embraced the opportunity to guide the rookie.
On Saturday night, Pittman and other veterans will watch their younger teammates, continuing to offer encouragement and advice, just as they have throughout training camp.
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