Where 9 Colts position battles stand after 2 preseason games

After the Indianapolis Colts' second preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons, a look at several key positional battles provides insight into where things stand. With a few practices and a preseason game against Detroit still to come, the following presents a snapshot of where each battle currently resides.

In the quarterback position, there's uncertainty about where Anthony Richardson and Riley Leonard stand. Both have shown flashes of potential, but their inconsistency has been a factor. Richardson's ability to extend plays and create positive gains after sacks could give the Colts' offense a new weapon to contend with.

For the running back role, Seth McGowan appears to be the man. In the wide receiver depth chart, two battles to watch are Nick Westbrook-Ikhine versus Laquon Treadwell and Deion Burks versus Coleman Owen. Treadwell has been given more opportunities thus far, and he can also contribute to special teams phases. As for Burks and Owen, the better return man may secure the job.

The depth of the offensive line was tested against Atlanta, with Luke Tenuta absent. No one has emerged as the clear favorite for the backup center role, but Dalton Tucker is the likely candidate. Jaylahn Tuimoloau and Micheal Clemons will likely fill the rotational defensive end roles, but opportunities for George Gumbs or Caden Curry could arise.

Jerry Tillery and Derrick Nnadi are both in jeopardy of getting cut at the tackle position. For the linebackers, Akeem Davis-Gaither will be a starter, although his competition for playing time remains unknown. Jaylon Carroll and CJ Allen seem to be the main contenders for the remaining spots. At cornerback, Cam Taylor-Britt is next in line for the starting role, with no other players having stood out yet.

In the kicking game, Blake Grupe has been the better kicker in practice, while Shrader has not missed in practice, but Grupe has yet to attempt an actual kick. In the preseason games, Grupe has yet to make an attempt, making this competition particularly close.