The Indianapolis Colts rookie wide receiver, Anthony Gould is an intriguing playmaker on this roster. Gould brings some unique skills and talents from Oregon State University to the Colts roster. In college, he was a triple-threat receiver who contributed to the passing game and running game, but his biggest contribution came on special teams. In the 2022 season, Gould led the Pac-12 in punt return yards with 256 and yards per return with 18.3. He also led the NCAA in punt return touchdowns with two on the year. As a receiver, Gould was a big-play maker who averaged 16.3 yards per reception in 2023. This ranked eighth in the Pac-12.
As a rookie in the NFL, Gould is not expected to compete to be a starting wide receiver for the Colts. Nonetheless, he brings depth to the offense and explosive capabilities on special teams. With the current roster and changes to the kickoff rules, Gould could potentially blossom into having a more prominent role with the team moving forward.
How Wide Receiver Anthony Gould Could Make a Splash as a Rookie
His Contribution as a Returner on Special Teams
Last season, the Colts utilized a rotation of playmakers to return kick and punt returns. Veteran receiver Isaiah McKenzie was their prominent returner, with rookie wide receiver Josh Downs implemented in the return game as well. However, with McKenzie traded to the New York Giants, Anthony Gould could fill the void that McKenzie will leave on special teams.
As mentioned, the NFL has updated the rules to kickoffs this season as they have implemented the rules from the USFL. This update will provide more excitement around kickoffs and minimize the risk of severe injury. For Anthony Gould, this will provide him with the opportunity to showcase the explosive capabilities that he displayed in college. Special teams is an overlooked element in the NFL, but this year it could be a forefront component. With field position being a crucial piece of the success for the offense, Gould could cement himself as a vital contributor.
His Contribution as a Versatile Playmaker on Offense
The primary wide receivers for the Colts are Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and rookie Adonai Mitchell. If Gould can cement himself as a special teams player, he could contribute consistently on the active roster. As a special teams player, though, he will also have a chance to play on offense with Anthony Richardson and Jonathan Taylor.
At Oregon State University, Gould was skilled in the passing game. In 2023, he accumulated over 700 receiving yards on 44 receptions. He also caught two touchdowns and had a long reception of 75 yards. While not a prominent role, Gould did also manage four rushes for 22 yards.
The Colts offensive mastermind and head coach, Shane Steichen, will have plenty of offensive weapons to implement within his offensive schemes. Anthony Gould will be no exception to this, as he could be a versatile playmaker and offensive contributor. The Colts offense showed signs of explosion and consistency last season. To build off of that success, Steichen will look to utilize Gould as a versatile playmaker in this offense.
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