For the foreseeable future, the Indianapolis Colts will be trotting out second-year quarterback Jacob Eason as the starter while Carson Wentz recovers from foot surgery over the next number of weeks.
This is Eason’s first real taste of competition in the NFL, and it’s only going to get tougher if and when he faces defenses during the regular season. That said, tight end Mo Alie-Cox is doing what he can to make life easier for the young passer.
“That’s why we’re in camp – you’ve just got to come out here every day, have faith in him and make sure he knows we trust him and have faith in him. Make him feel as comfortable as possible and get as many reps as possible,” Alie-Cox told reporters Monday. “Some of us were down in Houston, so some of us are familiar with Jacob (Eason). Some of the other guys who weren’t there – just get them up to speed and get them as many reps as possible.”
While Wentz got plenty of credit for getting in offseason work with his new teammates at various times during the summer, Eason deserves credit as well. He was there every step of the way getting work in and building chemistry with his pass-catchers.
Alie-Cox has been getting used to the quarterback carousel in Indy, which is why he doesn’t panic when it comes to gelling with a new signal-caller.
“Definitely – that’s why it’s a team game. All of us just help and piggy-back off each other. Like I said, make him feel as comfortable (as possible). Go out there and if he doesn’t see something, help him out,” Alie-Cox said. “Like you said, he hasn’t had much experience, no preseason last year and then Jacoby (Brissett) was here so he didn’t get a lot of practice reps. This is like his first time so just have to see how he does.”
When it comes to what impresses Alie-Cox the most about Eason’s game, the answer shouldn’t be all that surprising.
“His throw power – that ball gets there. Just got to make the catch. He’s powerful, but he also has some good touch on it too,” said Alie-Cox. “He’s tall so you actually see him. When that ball comes out you can get a good read on it.”
Eason will have a tough learning curve over the next few weeks as he prepares to be the starter in case Wentz isn’t ready, but having a target like Alie-Cox should make life a bit easier when scanning the field.
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