Indianapolis Colts: 5 Last Second Predictions For The 2016 NFL Season

The Indianapolis Colts are heading into a 2016 NFL season that is full of question marks. After coming up with a major dud last season, Jim Irsay is looking for his team to prove that they belong this year. If they don’t end up competing in the AFC, there is a good chance that some big changes could be made on the sidelines and in the front office.

Despite all of the rumors, the Colts decided to keep on head coach Chuck Pagano and general manager Ryan Grigson and to give them new deals as well. Irsay tried their deals together, which will make the two work together rather than against each other.

Andrew Luck struggled mightily last season as well and ended up missing the majority of the season due to injury. His most serious injury was a lacerated kidney that he suffered against the Denver Broncos. One of the things that Luck worked on this offseason was sliding down before taking the punishing hits that he has taken prior to this point in his career.

Looking ahead to the 2016 season, there are quite a few reasons that the Colts’ fan base should be excited. There are also quite a few reasons that they should worry about their team.

All of that being said, what five bold predictions can be made for the Indianapolis Colts heading into the 2016 NFL season?

After last season’s disappointment, Andrew Luck will work extremely hard to prove himself. He will find a way to get his name into the MVP conversation and will put the Colts’ worries to ease. Luck is still one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and he will prove that once again in 2016.

Frank Gore Will Break the 1,000-Yard Rushing Mark

Last season was a disappointing year for veteran running back Frank Gore in his first season with the Colts. He ended up carrying the football 260 times for 967 yards and six touchdowns. Gore will get back on track this season and will get back over the 1,000-yard hump that he was hoping to break last year.

Donte Moncrief Will Lead the Team in Receiving Yards

T.Y. Hilton is the first name that comes to mind for most fans and analysts when thinking about the Colts’ receiving corps. Donte Moncrief is going to be their No. 2 receiver and will end up leading the team in receiving yards when everything is said and done. He is one of Luck’s favorite targets and has the all-around skill-set to be a threat in every facet of the offensive playbook.

One of the big problems that the Colts have had over the years is the lack of a strong defensive presence. They didn’t upgrade their defense all that much this offseason either. Despite that fact, the Colts’ secondary will end up recording at least 20 interceptions this season, with Vontae Davis and Antonio Cromartie leading the way.

The Indianapolis Colts Will Win the AFC South Division

Indianapolis was unable to knock off the Houston Texans last season and missed the playoffs. This year, the Colts will be out for revenge. They are the favorite to win the AFC South title once again and will end up getting the job done.

Expect to see the Colts be one of the top contenders in the AFC this season. They may not end up making the Super Bowl, but they should win a playoff game or two if they play to their potential.

Do you think the Indianapolis Colts should be considered a serious contender in the AFC in 2016? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!

[Photo by Gary Landers/AP Images]