Report: Colts to Host Joint Practices Again This Training Camp

Offseason workouts are underway for NFL teams as the preseason approaches in the distance. For the Indianapolis Colts, these workouts will be of massive importance given the multitude of rookies now on the roster. Three of those rookies are likely expected to start or contribute right away in quarterback Anthony Richardson, wide receiver Josh Downs, and cornerback JuJu Brents.

One way that NFL teams, the Colts included, train themselves for the regular season is with joint practices with other franchises. According to The Chicago Tribune’s beat reporter Dan Wiederer, the Colts are reportedly set to host the Chicago Bears for crossover practices during the preseason.

Bears fully expecting to have crossover practices on the road with the Colts in Preseason Week 2.
— Dan Wiederer (@danwiederer) May 12, 2023

The Colts and Bears face off in the preseason on Aug. 19. How the Colts have typically conducted joint practices with other teams is with two sessions in the days leading up to the preseason game, with at least one rest day in between the practices and the game.

The Colts have been heavily involved with crossover practices to get ready for the true games that matter. This was broken down nicely by Fox 59’s Mike Chappell in his piece covering this announcement. He stated, “This marks the 10th time the Colts have participated in joint practices during training camp, including (the) seventh time in the last nine summers."

It’s also not at all shocking that the Colts chose the Bears this time around. They are relatively close in distance to one another. Also, current Bears head coach Matt Eberflus used to run the Colts’ defense from 2018 to 2021, and Colts general manager Chris Ballard used to team up with current Bears general manager Ryan Poles in Kansas City for multiple seasons.

The Colts are wise to continue to connect with other NFL teams for joint practices. This helps immensely with looks from players that the Colts roster doesn’t typically see on a day-to-day basis. Throw in the previously mentioned rookies and these practices during training camp are even more important. They will assist new Colts head coach Shane Steichen in arming his rookies with knowledge, experience, and tough competition ahead of the regular season.

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