While the Indianapolis Colts fell to 0-2 on the season, multiple players still stamped a solid performance.
The Indianapolis Colts suffered a 16-10 defeat to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. With the context of the game, Indianapolis had a prime opportunity to secure their first win of 2024 against a Packers team missing their starting quarterback, Jordan Love. Unfortunately, they allowed running back Josh Jacobs to help backup Malik Willis control the game, resulting in a disappointing loss that dropped their record to 0-2.
Despite the challenges the Colts face and the need for improvements, there were still standout performances in an otherwise tough outing. Here are three Colts players whose stock is rising following a difficult road loss to the Packers.
Jonathan Taylor | Running Back
Colts veteran running back Jonathan Taylor was one of the few positives for Indy’s offense on Sunday against the Packers. While much of Shane Steichen’s offensive strategy appeared ineffective, Taylor managed to contribute over 100 rushing yards with 12 carries for 103 yards.
In addition, Taylor added 2 receptions for 32 receiving yards on 4 targets. Although he struggled with drops, similar to other Colts pass-catchers, it’s puzzling why Steichen opted not to use Taylor in the fourth quarter, choosing instead to rely on Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson. Nevertheless, Taylor’s performance is closely linked to the overall strength of Indy’s offense, so fans can expect a significant bounce-back from the fifth-year player soon.
Nick Cross | Safety
Third-year Colts safety Nick Cross had an impressive 15 tackles against the Packers on Sunday afternoon, following a 14-tackle performance in week one against the Houston Texans. While it may seem remarkable that Cross is so active on the field, it largely stems from Indy’s struggling run defense, which has allowed runners like Joe Mixon and Josh Jacobs to break through to the second and third levels.
Cross deserves recognition for doing everything he can to hold back the flood against the Colts’ run defense. In the game against the Packers, he recorded Pro Football Focus defensive grades of 66.4 overall, 77.3 in run defense, and 74.6 in tackling, demonstrating his efforts to mitigate the run whenever possible. After two games, Indy has given up a staggering 474 rushing yards, the most in the NFL, and Cross has been essential in trying to contain opposing ball carriers. This situation cannot continue if Indy hopes to win. Currently, Cross leads the league with a total of 29 tackles.
Alec Pierce | Wide Receiver
Colts receiver Alec Pierce delivered another strong performance, leading Indy’s receiving group against the Packers. While Michael Pittman Jr. and Adonai Mitchell struggled to connect with Anthony Richardson, Pierce has proven to be the most dependable pass-catcher for the Colts offense in 2024. Following an impressive outing against the Texans, Pierce had a solid game with 5 catches on 7 targets for 56 yards and yet another touchdown.
Through two games, Pierce tops the Colts in receptions (8), receiving yards (181), and touchdown catches (2). He also leads in first-down receptions with 6 and is showcasing a well-rounded skill set as an offensive weapon for Richardson. While it’s encouraging to see Pierce realize his potential, the rest of the Indianapolis receiving corps needs to step up to support the former Cincinnati Bearcat. Second-year slot receiver Josh Downs is expected to contribute once he returns from his ankle injury.
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