Even if Andy refuses to acknowledge them, the Colts have another potentially great offensive weapon on their hands in Anthony Gonzalez.
While I was socializing recently, I received a phone call from the formerly esteemed Andy Goldstein. In this memorable phone call, Andy stated, “Derek, I will go the entire year without watching the Colts on television. I can’t stand them. You write this article. I’m not doing it.”
So, here I am to provide you information on the 2007 first round selection of the Indianapolis Colts, former Ohio State Buckeye Anthony Gonzalez, since Andy (aka Larry Johnson, Jr.) is too conflicted with Colts angst to do it. Andy, some of us are professionals or masquerade around as one at the very least.
The game plan for the 2007 Colts looks pretty simple. They are just going to outscore people. After watching their defense lose more depth on the defensive line and in the secondary during the offseason, the Colts decided to do what any other logical team would do in this situation. They decided to add to the offense in the draft.
With the loss of Brandon Stokely, Gonzalez steps in as a legit slot receiving threat. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.29 seconds and this type of speed was something the Colts lacked whether Stokley was on the field or not at the slot position. Gonzalez possesses good hands and solid route running which certianly is a bonus for a rookie trying to adjust to the NFL. Lord Peyton will also enjoy Gonzalez’s knack of holding onto the ball. During his days as a Buckeye, Gonzalez never fumbled despite catching 87 passes worth 1,286 yards.
Once he gets up to speed on Indy’s offense, Gonzalez will try to alleviate pressure on teammates Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne, who’ll draw plenty of attention. This is nothing new for Gonzalez though, who played opposite of the electrifying Ted Ginn, Jr. in college. Suffice to say, with Harrison, Wayne and Dallas Clark roaming the field on passing formations, Gonzalez should get outstanding opportunities to make plays. Most importantly, due to the prolific nature of the Colts offense, he’ll have a chance to produce touchdowns.
From a fantasy standpoint, Gonzalez probably has most value in a touchdown-only league. He did not show the consistent ability to break tackles at Ohio State and that is not necessarily conducive to gaining serious yards after the catch. He’ll have to get a bit stronger to add that dimension to his game.
When you have King Manning firing the football to you, that makes things a lot easier. Certainly, with the number of weapons in Indy, there is a ceiling for Gonzalez’s immediate potential. However, he’ll give Manning a good slot target and could be a solid red-zone threat. If you’re looking to cash in on the Colts’ offensive riches, he would not be a bad guy to have on your roster in larger leagues.
That ends our look at Gonzalez. You see Goldstein, it was just that easy. Get off your high horse and start watching, writing, eating and sweating to the oldies with the Colts. Whether they are good, bad or indifferent, you’ll be a better person for it.
