It wasn't the usual outing for the Indianapolis Colts in 2012. Spring was right around the corner. The Colts were out of the playoffs for the first time in 10 years holding the number 1 overall draft pick, and Peyton Manning was out the entire season after having neck surgery. Free Agency had just begun with the start of the new
year. Owner Jim Irsay had a decision to make Peyton Manning was due a 28 Million dollar roster bonus. A huge chunk of change and a risk that Irsay was struggling to make. Spend nearly 25% on a franchise quarterback, or cutting him and starting over. The 2012 draft had two starter ready quarterback coming out of college.. Andrew Luck from Stanford, and Robert Griffin from Baylor. Both had intriguing talents and potential. Having the number 1 draft pick allowed the colts to select either. however there was rumor that Irsay would keep manning had he selected number 2 overall. During that fateful day in March, Irsay pulled the trigger and Start Peyton Manning was a free agent. The Colts, however went with there previous stars suggestion.. They selected Andrew Luck out of Stanford with there first pick in the draft. Starting new for the colts, getting new General Manager Ryan Grigson, and releasing veterans such as Dallas Clark,
Joseph Addai, and later Dwight Freeney. Grigson Struck gold in the 2012 draft not only the selection of Luck, but they got TE Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen, and WR T.Y. Hilton. Manning signed with the Broncos and had two of his best seasons as pro earning a fifth MVP.. Two years in the books for Andrew Luck, here is a comparison after 2 nfl seasons pro with Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning:
32 games started.
1,108 attempts vs 657 completions or 59% completion rate.
7874 yards thrown with 56 TD and 43 Int. being sacked 36 times.
His overall W/L record was 16W/16L and 0-1 in the playoff success making the post season in his second year pro.
Andrew Luck in his first 2 years
32 games started.
1,197 attempts vs 682 completions or 57% completion rate.
8,196 yards thrown with 46TD and 27Int. being sacked 73 times.
His overall W/L record is 22W/10L and is 1-2 in playoff success making the post season in both of his seasons pro.
Through Year 2 it looks like Jim Irsay made the right move. The addition of more weapons to the defense and offense in year 3 and players coming back from injury, look for Andrew Luck to have a break out season for the 3rd consecutive year. The "Monster" according to Ryan Grigson, is only a few acquisitions away from reaching the SuperBowl. Look for the team to compete for a superbowl for the next 10 to 15 years and potentially be in one or two before 2020. A totally smart win for Jim Irsay and the Colts... Andrew Luck is a Beast.
