You are now a week in the whole team gathered for training camp. What were your main takeaways from those early days, even if you’re limited to strength, conditioning, and solutions at the moment?
Reich: “Just the project presentations and moving from Zoom meetings to entering the field. And although this is only a walkthrough, at this level the walkthroughs are critically important; we do a lot, there is a lot of coaching, there is a lot of adjustments made, the players do a great job with it. So it’s a very productive time. “
The Colts ended up having three players – Rolan Milligan, Skai Moore and Marvell Tell III – decide to withdraw from the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. How difficult were those conversations with each of these guys?
Reich: “Without a doubt, these are personal decisions that I think we have to respect, and we respect. So, these are tough conversations – these three guys, we love these guys. These guys are good football players, they “are good men. Everyone has made their own personal decision for different reasons and in different circumstances, and you have to respect that and then wish them the best, that they stay safe and healthy, and then we will see how things go. the future. “
Milligan, Moore and Tell III were all members of the 53-man roster at one point last season, so their decision to step down potentially gives some of the younger ones more opportunities to compete for places on the roster. Is it exciting for these guys?
Reich: “That’s the goal of training camp, it’s a chance to win a place not only on the roster, but also an opportunity to play. So we really believe that the competition will bring out the best of these battles. , and it’s amazing. opportunity for young players to make an impact. “
In security, in particular, you currently only have four players capable of participating in field activities. Are you going to try to add more before things pick up in practice?
Reich: “It’s hard to come in with four. Chris watches this every day, and of course Julian is on (the non-football injury list), so hopefully we can get him to talk before too long , but it’s one day-a day, week a week. So we’ll make sure that when we need it, we have all the guys on the list that we need to be successful in boot camp workouts. “
You get a lot of feedback in all areas and then you go into the third year with your three coordinators. What benefit does this represent for your team?
Reich: “You know what? Once the guys get in here, you just realize by remaking the facilities how much of a benefit that is, because we’re a lot deeper in it, the main players who have been here. really know and accept it and they essentially become coaches on the pitch as well. So that really helps. “
What was your first impression of the rookie class now that they’ve been in the building for a few weeks?
Reich: “I think they’re studying hard. I think they’re doing a good job mentally – you know, taking the plans. Now it’s not just question and answer on Zoom calls, now we have to see that you can call the right place and do the right thing. And so far, mentally, they look really good. “
One of those rookies, running back Jonathan Taylor, is certainly looking for the role. What was your first impression of Taylor, and how much work does he need to do to get up to speed by the start of the regular season?
Reich: “Yeah, I mean, Jonathan obviously worked really hard in the offseason. Physically he’s in great shape. It doesn’t surprise me with the type of character he has. And then mentally this guy is really. a smart player; he’s worked really hard to pick it up. Coach Tom Rathman did a good job catching him up really well. Jonathan is putting in some extra time. I really think that will help make him a dynamic backfield for us . “
What is Nyheim Hines’ potential this season? He’s improved in each of his first two seasons, and then on top of that he has a new quarterback, Philip Rivers, who loves to throw the ball to running backs.
Reich: “It’s a double thing. I mean, one is that Nyheim just keeps getting better, more and more confident, more and more sophisticated in his journey. And then on top of that, Philip has a long and very well documented career of knowing how to take the ball to running backs for big wins, so he’s thrown a bit in the back. So I’m sure Nyheim is excited about that, and I know Philip is excited to have Nyheim. “
How have some of the biggest additions of the offseason, DeForest Buckner and Philip Rivers, been received by their new teammates?
Reich: “I think the transition was easy. These guys are strong leaders, both DeForest and Philip – great teammates. So I think that made for a really easy transition. They come here with already a lot of credibility, both on and off the pitch, which makes that transition a lot easier. “
What happens as a team for next week at the camp?
Reich: “The players will have a day off on Saturday, then we will have three more days of strength and conditioning. Then we have the ramp-up period where we get the two days of helmets, and then you put the shells on. a few days. So you just want (see) more and more speed, and more competition. So as we go up the pads and are able to get on the pitch and go to full speed, you want to see everyone competing there, believing that will lead to the execution that we need to win games on Sunday. “
