The Indianapolis Colts have seven picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, including one to choose Ricky Pearsall. In 2022, Pearsall joined the Florida Gators from Arizona State. During that season, Pearsall became colleagues with Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. Despite the fact that they just spent a short time together on the field, the two have remained in touch. Pearsall discussed his friendship with Richardson in an interview with Jake Arthur from Locked on Colts, describing it as “special” to collaborate with him again.

The Colts have a chance to make this combo a reality. Pearsall is expected to be taken in the second or third round. However, as a wide receiver with a lot of potential, he will attract attention early on day two. As a result, if the Colts want Ricky Pearsall on their roster, they must take action.

Why Ricky Pearsall would be a good fit for the Indianapolis Colts

Familiarity with Anthony Richardson

The familiarity of a quarterback and wide receiver tandem is one of the factors that contribute to their lethality. Pearsall played one season with Richardson, mostly as the number one receiver. Any quarterback with regular success in the NFL usually has a primary receiver. The familiarity between the two promotes continuity and consistency on the field. Tom Brady’s primary receivers included Randy Moss and Rob Gronkowski. Peyton Manning’s primary receivers included Marvin Harrison Sr. and Reggie Wayne. Even Andrew Luck relied on T.Y. Hilton to achieve success.Patrick Mahomes relies heavily on Travis Kelce, and the list continues.

The basic takeaway is that familiarity between receiver and quarterback is essential. If the Colts choose Ricky Pearsall, he and Anthony Richardson will already be ahead of the game. This is not to imply that Pearsall will become the Colts’ primary receiver, but given his talent and potential, he could do so in the future. Whether or whether he is the top receiver, the Colts may need another receiver to supplement Richardson. Pearsall would fit the mold. He is already familiar with Richardson, his former quarterback, and he is a dynamic player.

Explosive Capabilities

Outside of his familiarity with Anthony Richardson, the Indianapolis Colts should pursue Ricky Pearsall for his explosive capabilities. In his 2022 season with Richardson, Pearsall finished with 33 receptions for 661 yards and five touchdowns. While these numbers might seem minute, it is his average per reception that is impressive. In 2022, Pearsall led the entire SEC in yards per reception with 20 and was fourth in all of the NCAA. In 2023, he would finish with 65 receptions for 965 yards which both ranked sixth in the SEC.

Pearsall was not just an explosive receiver, but he could also rush the ball. In 2022, he had eight carries for 113 yards and one touchdown. He also advanced to punt returner in 2022, which resulted in increased opportunities for punt returns in 2023. In 2023, Pearsall returned 11 times for 126 yards. His eleven returns were ninth in the SEC, while his punt yards ranked eighth. When it comes to wide receivers, Pearsall is a true multi-talented player. He would be an excellent addition to the Colts’ receiving corps and a perfect complement to Josh Downs in the slot.