The Fan Hub

<p>The Indianapolis Colts have been a consistent contender for the AFC's spot in the Super Bowl for years, but this offseason will be defining them for years to come. Starting with the draft and leading into upcoming free agency, the Colts have made all the right moves so far, but have some of the biggest decisions yet to come.</p>
<p>The Colts set out to improve one of the worst parts of their game during the draft. Anthony Castonzo will be immediately effective at left tackle and Ben Ijalana should be a big improvement in helping the Colts' open running lanes. Meanwhile, Drake Nevis will be adding a lot of power to the defensive line and help put an end to the Colts' notoriously awful run defense.</p>
<p>The Colts next move is in free agency. Historically, Indy is big on keeping their own free agents over pulling in players from the outside, but they might want to take a look at Reggie Bush. Though he's not officially up for grabs yet, it's pretty likely that he'll go up after the Saints extended Pierre Thomas's contract and picked up Mark Ingram in the draft.</p>
<p>While the Colts have a solid option in Joseph Addai, Bush would bring a different kind of pop to their offense. His speed and explosiveness would give the Colts a type of running game they haven't had in a long time, but the best thing about him is how he can catch the ball. He's an excellent option as a receiver, but he couldn't replace Addai. Addai's strength lays in his ability to block the pass rush. He's the key for the Colts picking up the blitz and giving Manning the time he needs.</p>
<p>There's already turmoil for next offseason. Both Robert Mathis and Reggie Wayne are going into the final year of their contracts and both are among the best players in the league at their positions. Both are going to want a lot of money, and rightfully so, but it's unlikely that the Colts can afford to pay them both what they may ask for. As long as Peyton Manning is leading the team onto the field, it's important to keep strong receivers. Pierre Garcon can be explosive and Dallas Clark and Austin Collie are great targets, but Reggie Wayne is by far the Colts' most consistent option, especially last season after injuries wreaked havoc on the team's passing game.</p>
<p>It's hard to think of many teams with a consistent direction, but the Colts know exactly where they want to go. The real trouble won't start until Peyton Manning steps down.</p>