Indianapolis Colts: Isaiah Rodgers Developing Quicker Than Expected

The Indianapolis Colts were thought to be a weaker team at corner in 2021. The development of Isaiah Rodgers has changed that.

For the Indianapolis Colts, a team who made the postseason in 2020, staying aggressive was important. They went out to get Carson Wentz in the offseason, brought in two new edge rushers in the 2021 draft, and signed Eric Fisher to help ease issues at left tackle. Still, it looked like corner might be a weaker position for Indianapolis in 2021, and would be something they’d get aggressive addressing the next offseason.

As it turns out, Chris Ballard is just a genius and we are all sheep. Obviously, Kenny Moore continues to be one of (if not the) best slot corners in the NFL. Rock Ya-Sin has made some great progress in year three, but the most surprising development has been the breakout of Isaiah Rodgers.

Rodgers was a sixth-round selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, and brought world-class speed to the table as a prospect. He was primarily used as a returner in 2020, but had to start in place of Xavier Rhodes, who was injured, in their playoff game against Buffalo. Rodgers nearly picked off a pass in that game with his impressive recovery speed to get into position.

In 2021, we’ve seen a big jump for Rodgers. He’s still an impressive returner, and has ripped off a few big returns this season, including a 71-yarder against the Buccaneers. But, his growth and development as a corner has been extremely quick.

His speed has been important in carrying receivers deep in man coverage, and it’s very difficult to gain a step on him. He transitions very well playing on the outside, and has played impressive games against top competition, most notably the Bucs. The ball skills are what really separate Rodgers, as he has two interceptions and six passes defensed this season. He tracks the ball especially well and can adjust quickly to make a play on the ball.

His quick development has really shown how good the coaching staff is with the Indianapolis Colts, the talent Isaiah Rodgers possessed, and the continued prowess of Chris Ballard when it comes to the NFL Draft.