Here’s the thing, none of these cuts are truly surprising, but there is some name recognition that may have some Colts fans feeling queasy about the 2023 roster. However, fans must remember that the purpose of the upcoming season for the Indianapolis Colts is not to win games. Yes, I said that. The Colts need to focus on developing young talent in order to set up the franchise for the next decade, not the next 4 months. The start of that process will be cutting veterans that inhibit the growth of ascending stars, even if they have been great for the Colts in the past.
1. Tony Brown – Cornerback
Colts CB Tony Brown (38) – Indianapolis Colts
The Colts’ core special teamer has been a solid journeyman for a variety of NFL teams, but this year Brown only takes away reps from rookies like Darius Rush and Jaylon Jones. Also, with veterans like Kevin Toliver II, Brown will find it difficult to find space in a crowded defensive backfield.
Brown signed a one year, 1.2 million dollar contract with the Colts in March, but that cap hit isn’t punitive to the Colts if they decide to go in another direction. Although Tony Brown could play a key role in Brian Walsh’s special teams’ attack, the juice isn’t worth the squeeze. It’s time to pass the team to potential stars and Brown just isn’t one of them.
Look for him to be scooped up by a team trying to solidify their special teams, but don’t be surprised if he lands on the Colts’ practice roster.
2. Isaiah McKenzie – Receiver
Colts WR Isaiah McKenzie (6) – Harry How/Getty Images
I know he just signed this off-season, but I highly doubt he’ll ever wear the horseshoe in a regular-season game. In 15 games last season, McKenzie notched 42 receptions with 423 yards and four touchdowns with the Buffalo Bills.
In another world, McKenzie would be the perfect replacement for Parris Campbell who left for the Big Blue Apple. But the Colts selected a more explosive, younger option in the 3rd round this past draft. Josh Downs shows flashes of brilliance on tape and will make substantial strides under the tutelage of receiver coach and Colts legend, Reggie Wayne.
McKenzie becomes redundant in this receiver core and, similar to Brown, does not carry a punitive dead cap number even though he just signed in March.
Look for Mckenzie to land with a receiver-needy team like the Patriots, Falcons, or Browns.
3. Mo Alie-Cox – Tight End
Colts TE Mo Alie-Cox (81) – Indianapolis Colts
Every time Mo catches a pass, the color commentator is obligated to mention he used to play basketball at VCU. It is quite possibly the most annoying and lazy description of a man who developed into a solid football player.
However, he may have surpassed the peak of his ability. In 17 games last season, Alie-Cox hauled in only 19 balls for 189 yards. It would be fine if he were a lockdown beast in the blocking game, but that’s not true. According to PFF, Alie-Cox ranked 55 out of 72 tight ends in blocking and 27 out of 73 in pass blocking. He’s just not good enough anymore.
He may fill a leadership role in an otherwise young tight end room, but that’s not worth a roster spot in 2023. As is the theme of this article, a middle-level, somewhat reliable veteran does not fit the trajectory of this team.
Jelani Woods and Kylen Granson were both more productive than Alie-Cox last season and fans can expect both young men to improve. Andrew Ogletree was a shining star in Colts Training Camp last season before the injury witch poisoned his rookie campaign. With Ogletree’s talent and catch radius, expect him to be a weapon in the red zone. Finally, Will Mallory was selected in the 5th round of the 2023 draft. He has the ability to be a quality pass catcher and is athletic enough to have an immediate impact on special teams.
With four youngsters in front of him, Mo Alie-Cox could be a disappointing camp casualty.
I won’t be surprised in Alie-Cox lands with Frank Reich in Carolina if he’s not used as trade bait for any team that has injuries to their tight end position during training camp.
This season the Colts have one goal in mind; development. Older players with limited production shouldn’t be on this roster. Don’t worry about the scoreboard this year, Colts fans! We have better things coming.
