On the field for the Indianapolis Colts’ first OTA practice on Wednesday were safety Daniel Scott and tight end Jelani Woods, both of whom missed the 2024 season with injuries.
Scott, who was a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft by the Colts, missed last season after suffering an Achilles injury in early June. He also missed the 2023 season with an ACL injury.
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Injuries have derailed Scott’s first two seasons, but he’s a player that head coach Shane Steichen has spoken very highly of. He’s also at a position that is low on experienced depth behind Cam Bynum and Nick Cross, which could lead to a roster spot or two being up for grabs this summer.
“I think he’s going to have a hell of a future,” Steichen said during last offseason’s OTAs. “He’s smart, intelligent. That’s part of it, playing in the back end, communication.”
Woods was placed on season-ending injured reserve in late August after undergoing toe surgery at that time. Woods would also miss the 2023 season while working through hamstring injuries.
At 6-7, 253 pounds, with 4.61 speed and the ability to line up out wide and in the slot, Woods has the potential to be a real matchup problem in the passing game.
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“A big body tight end that can run the vertical routes, run the shallows, run the deep cross,” Steichen said last offseason. “Obviously, he’s a matchup for a defense that they gotta be prepared for.”
Woods is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and Scott has two years remaining.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts OTAs: Jelani Woods, Daniel Scott participating in first practice