Quarterback Jason Bean, Who Signed With The Indianapolis Colts As An Undrafted Free Agent, Will Look To Earn A Spot On The 53-Man Roster.
Jason Bean went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft but subsequently joined the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent. The question now is whether the quarterback from Kansas will secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Though it will pose a challenge, the opportunity is there if he performs exceptionally well during training camp and the preseason.
In the realm of NFL history, a number of undrafted quarterbacks have defied expectations and carved out remarkable careers. Kurt Warner and Warren Moon stand out as prime examples in this category. While it may be unlikely for Bean to achieve the legendary status of players like Warner and Moon, there is a chance for him to establish himself as a reliable professional player in the future.
Jason Bean Could Make the Indianapolis Colts’ 53-Man Roster
Jason Bean’s Collegiate Career
Jason Bean kicked off his college journey at the University of North Texas, where over three seasons with the Mean Green, he accumulated 1,307 passing yards and 17 touchdowns.
In 2021, Bean made a move to Kansas, where in his debut season with the Jayhawks, he threw for 1,252 yards and six touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 400 yards and two touchdowns. The following year, in 2022, he tallied 1,280 passing yards, 14 touchdowns through the air, as well as 222 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns.
During the most recent season, Bean showcased his skills by throwing for 2,130 yards and 18 touchdowns, along with 280 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Notably, he excelled against Oklahoma State, where he achieved 410 passing yards and five touchdowns. He delivered a remarkable performance in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl against UNLV, throwing for 449 yards and six touchdowns, leading Kansas to a significant 49-36 victory, marking the team’s first bowl win in over ten years.
Will He Make the Team?
Anthony Richardson has solidified his position as the starting quarterback for the Colts without a doubt. As the fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft, he only participated in four games during his rookie season. Currently, he is in good health and is anticipated to maintain his fitness throughout the entirety of the 2024 season.
In the circumstance where Richardson was injured, Gardner Minshew took charge for the remainder of the season. Minshew has since moved to the Las Vegas Raiders and has been replaced by Joe Flacco.
Richardson and Flacco are certain to secure spots on the Colts’ roster this year. The question remains about who will fill the role of the third quarterback. Sam Ehlinger fulfilled this position in 2023. Jason Bean will be competing with Kedon Slovis and Ehlinger in training camp and the preseason for that role.
Bean has a chance to secure the position. Similar to Richardson, he is a mobile quarterback with outstanding athleticism. Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen, known for his offensive expertise, could aid in developing Bean into a reliable backup for Richardson, ensuring minimal playbook adjustments if a switch from Richardson to Bean is ever necessary.
Nonetheless, it is unlikely that Bean will surpass Ehlinger. Ehlinger, who has been part of the Colts since being drafted by the team in 2021, possesses NFL experience, having started three games in the 2022 season. The team has confidence in him, reflected by his three-year presence on the roster.
Bean and fellow undrafted free agent quarterback Slovis may make a strong impression during training camp. However, it is expected that Ehlinger will retain his position as the Colts’ third-string quarterback behind starting QB Anthony Richardson and primary backup Joe Flacco.
Leave a Reply