In the aftermath of an intriguing 2023 season, the Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for the 2024 NFL campaign with their sights set on ending their three-year postseason drought. Led by second-year starter Anthony Richardson, the Colts will be looking to build upon last year's nine-win performance and make a push for a playoff berth.

One of the key developments for the Colts in the offseason was the addition of veteran backup quarterback Joe Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP. Flacco's vast experience, entering his 17th NFL season, brings invaluable depth to the quarterback room and should significantly benefit Richardson as he continues his development as the team's signal-caller.

Despite struggling defensively last season, ranking 28th in points allowed and 24th in total yards, Indianapolis has reasons for optimism. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley returns for his third year with the team, and the Colts boast a formidable pass rush group that includes Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye, DeForest Buckner, Dayo Odeyingbo, and their most recent draft pick, edge rusher Latu. With four players who recorded eight or more sacks in 2023 still on the roster, the potential for improvement on the defensive side of the ball is high.

Offensively, the Colts have also made notable moves. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. signed a lucrative three-year, $70 million extension, solidifying his importance to Richardson's development. Pittman's ability to make contested catches, with 48 since 2021, highlights his reliability as a target in crucial situations.

Speaking of Richardson, the young quarterback showed glimpses of his potential in his limited action as a rookie, recording an impressive seven total touchdowns in his first three games. However, Richardson will need to work on protecting himself and improving his passing accuracy, as he had the third-lowest career college completion percentage among first-round quarterbacks since 2000.

In terms of the schedule, the Colts will kick off the season against the Houston Texans, providing an opportunity for Richardson to make a statement right from the start. Their divisional matchups against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans in October will be crucial for positioning within the AFC South.

To consider the season a success, the Colts have set their sights on earning a playoff berth. Their near-miss last season, with Richardson only receiving a small percentage of snaps, has fueled their determination to make a deeper postseason run this year. Head coach Shane Steichen's track record of developing quarterbacks, evident in his work with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia, inspires confidence in Richardson's progression.

The Colts recognize that defensive improvements and continued growth from their young stars, most notably Richardson, will be vital to their success. With the right pieces in place and a hungry team eager to end their playoff drought, the Colts are poised to be one of the surprise teams of the 2024 NFL season.

With the start of the season just around the corner, Colts fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike eagerly await the team's journey as they aim to exceed expectations and secure a spot in the playoffs.