5 Takeaways for the Colts vs. the Bengals

Aug 7, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Michael Vick (1) is sacked by Indianapolis Colts linebacker Cam Johnson (59) and defensive end Jonathan Newsome (91) during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jonathan Newsome Has Future “Star Potential”

Perhaps the biggest bright spot for the Colts last night was the play of rookie defensive end Jonathan Newsome, who was drafted in the 5th round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He was brought in to help with the pass rush, and he was able to do just that in preseason action. Last night, he was given extended playing time, and repeatedly got into the backfield to put pressure on Bengals’ quarterback Jason Campbell.

Newsome ended up compiling four tackles and a sack, and had many more quarterback pressures. Is he going to be as good as Robert Mathis in the future? Probably not. Does he have the ability to be an above average pass rusher in the NFL? Without a doubt.

Working alongside of Mathis will help Newsome continue to grow as a player, and he has a great work ethic as well. The Colts drafted him because they saw the potential for him to be an every down defensive end in the future, and his motor never seemed to end last night. Expect to see him have some type of role this season as a rookie, and there is no doubt that he has “star potential” for the future if he keeps working hard.