The Indianapolis Colts were in attendance at the University of Texas Pro Day and were able to see just how explosive wide receiver Xavier Worthy is. During the NFL Combine, Worthy turned many heads by posting a record 40-yard dash of 4.21. On sheer athleticism, he is considered the best wide receiver in the draft. Based on his speed and agility, he has the makings of being similar to wide receiver, Tyreek Hill. The Colts have been missing an explosive weapon like Xavier Worthy. However, with his small size and inconsistencies with press coverage, would drafting him be worth it?
Xavier Worthy is listed at five feet, 11 inches, and weighs 165 pounds. One of the main concerns is his size, being under 170 pounds. Now, receivers can put on muscle and get bigger, but there is also a concern with his ability to win in press coverage. Due to his small size, he tends to get bullied by defensive backs. That being said if he can break free just for a split second, his speed all but makes up for his size. Many mock drafts have Worthy going in the first round of the NFL Draft. Therefore, he has the upside to be a top-tier wide receiver. The Colts need explosive weapons that can complement the receivers already on the team. They also need a weapon that can play in tandem with Anthony Richardson’s explosive capabilities at quarterback.
Why the Indianapolis Colts Should Consider Xavier Worthy
He is Explosive Off the Ball
At the University of Texas, Xavier Worthy finished his 2023 season with 75 receptions for 1,014 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Worthy’s receptions ranked third in the Big-12 and his receiving yards ranked second in the Big-12. With running a 4.21 at the Combine, Worthy is not short on speed. Therefore, if coaches can scheme up plays to get him out in space, the sky is the limit for the offense.
As well as being an explosive wide receiver, Worthy was also an explosive punt returner. In 2023, he finished with 371 punt return yards which was the best in all of the NCAA. He also had one punt return touchdown on 22 returns which was the best in the Big-12. The Colts need an explosive punt returner who can set up the offense with good field position.
He Would Complement Josh Downs and Michael Pittman Jr.
The Colts recently signed veteran wide receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. to a three-year extension. After his monster season in 2023, he will look to continue to put up big numbers as the number-one receiver for the Colts. Wide receiver, Josh Downs is coming off a breakout rookie season in which he proved that he can thrive in the slot, make plays in space, and make contested catches. Xavier Worthy could be a complement who could also be the missing link for the Colts offense. He can play both in the slot or on the outside. If the Colts want to attack the middle, they can use Downs and Worthy to keep defenses off balance. If they want to attack the outside and get something going down the field, they can use Pittman and Worthy. Regardless of where the Colts put him, Worthy will be a presence who can make plays in space. The Colts have the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft. It will be interesting to see where they go and if Worthy is available.
Main Photo: [Aaron E. Martinez] – USA Today Sports
