Next Man Up: Jack Mewhort
Jul 24, 2014; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Jack Mewhort (75) goes through drills during training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Donald Thomas is done for the year after a re-torn quad. Now, Indianapolis is looking for the next man up as the offense attempts to move forward through the injury.
Enter second-round pick Jack Mewhort. The rookie out of Ohio State is taking snaps with the first team in Thomas’ former guard spot, and has a great chance to win the spot through quality practice and preseason performance. While it was expected that he would simply provide depth and step into the starting job in 2015, Mewhort will get a stab at starting well before he previously anticipated.
Mewhort is the latest young player to join the extremely youthful interior of the Colts’ offensive line. He’ll join second-year pro Hugh Thornton at right guard and center Khaled Holmes (who played just 12 snaps last season).
One of Mewhort’s greatest qualities is his ability to move around. He had extensive experience at both guard and tackle in his time at OSU, making him versatile on an offensive line that is sure to need his flexibility. He’s able to come in and make an immediate impact at guard, but could also slide over to tackle if Cherilus or Castonzo went down with injury.
Jack Mewhort can also make contributions at the center spot. While he has historically been better at guard and tackle, Mewhort can easily switch places with Holmes if Khaled is struggling with the duties during games.
Former Bear and Dolphin veteran lineman Lance Louis will also get a shot at starting in Thomas’ place, but the job is Mewhort’s to lose. He has impressed in camp with his toughness and versatility, impressing position coaches as well as Head Coach Chuck Pagano.
"“Besides his toughness, position flexibility, he doesn’t flinch when we move him around…The guy is unflappable. He’s a tough guy and nothing seems to bother Jack.”-Chuck Pagano"
That toughness is something that the Colts’ offensive line has been devoid of since Jeff Saturday. While Castonzo and Cherilus are quality starting tackles, neither bring a resilience or fighting spirit to the offensive line. If Mewhort can make an impact early and mature to an above-average interior lineman, he could have a great first few years providing interior protection.
The run game also will get a boost if Mewhort shows off the same talents that earned him a second-round pick in 2013. Mewhort helped pave the way for a 6.2 YPC average rushing season for Ohio State, and his toughness helped pave the way for Carlos Hyde and Braxton Miller’s potent rushing attack.
Thomas is gone, and it hurts. But it’s time to forget and move on. A preseason of action will tell whether Mewhort really is the answer.