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The Indianapolis Colts finally made a notable offseason move this week when they signed free agent wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey. The former member of the Oakland Raiders will head east to Indianapolis on a one-year deal worth $2.5 million.
After failing to re-sign Donnie Avery, adding another receiver became a top priority for the team. Owner Jim Irsay kept tweeting that they were in discussions to land a WR, but it wasn’t until weeks later that Heyward-Bay was inked to a deal. Just being realistic – I doubt Irsay was hinting at Heyward Bay in those tweets.
Regardless, Indy has acquired a solid pass-catcher, who immediately helps fill the 781-yard void that Avery left.
Heyward-Bay is often scrutinized by fans, and he’s really not considered anywhere near a top talent. I think people are a little to harsh on him, as he did nearly rack up 1,000 yards in 2011. Let’s be honest, this guy would probably be more highly regarded if hadn’t spent the last four years in Oakland. That franchise is a mess.
Now, he heads to a team that’s got its proverbial crap together. He’ll upgrade significantly at quarterback with Andrew Luck now tossing him the pigskin, and I really don’t see a scenario (outside of injury) where this guy doesn’t have a very solid 2013 campaign. Even on the four-win, Carson Palmer-led Raiders last year, he still racked up over 600 yards and five touchdowns.
The potential is there with Heyward-Bay. He’s finally heading to a franchise that knows what it’s doing, and to one that has a potential phenom at QB. Things are are looking up for Heyward-Bay, and I won’t be a bit surprised if he flirts with 1,000 yards this season.
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