The Indianapolis Colts turned the page on quarterback Carson Wentz one season after trading first and third round picks for him. The Colts shipped him to the Washington Commanders for far less compensation. In return, Indianapolis acquired the more proven Matt Ryan to take the helm at quarterback.
Analysts view the Colts as a Super Bowl-ready team that was being held back by Wentz. Ryan is considered an upgrade and answer to get the Colts where they want to be. One player shared that sentiment after practicing with Ryan at minicamp.
Colts running back Nyheim Hines praised Ryan while throwing a jab at Wentz.
“He’s not missing the lay-ups,” Hines said, per the Indianapolis Star.
Wentz had been criticized for overlooking the easier throws that opposing defenses were willing to give up. It’s not hard to see what Hines was referring to by saying Ryan isn’t missing “the layups.”
Hines was a bit more direct when he elaborated his thinking of Ryan.
“Every year, it’s all dependent on what the quarterback likes, his accuracy. Matt is checking all the boxes. It’s been like playing with Andrew (Luck) or Phillip (Rivers),” Hines continued.
It’s quite noticeable Hines didn’t mention Wentz. Yet, he named every other Colts quarterback during his time with the team.
There was a narrative from Indianapolis following the Wentz trade. One that rumored to be his teammates didn’t see him as favorable as one should a quarterback. Colts owner Jim Irsay drove home the notion repeatedly as he expressed his ire towards Wentz.
However, there have been instances where Colts players have said the opposite. Commanders head coach Ron Rivera even stated support from Colts players helped drive a trade for Wentz.
Hines’ recent comments at the very least shows that some on the team had concerns about the play of Wentz.
The Colts appear happy to have Ryan as their quarterback. They believe their chances of competing for a championship has increased with the QB switch. It’s easy to understand. Ryan is a former NFL MVP and has thrown for over 59,000 yards in his career.
Meanwhile, the Commanders are happy to get Wentz. Unlike his entry in Indianapolis, Washington understands he is an upgrade from their recent string of signal callers. His backup and predecessor Taylor Heinicke understands it, too. The Commanders appear just as confident with Wentz as the Colts feel without him.
