Josh Cribbs gets a tryout with Colts

Josh Cribbs may be the newest Indianapolis Colt.

The electric kick/punt returner was brought in to the Colts’ facilities on Tuesday to get a tryout with the team. Details are still murky as to why exactly the Colts had him in, but Cribbs joined receiver Willie Snead and defensive tackle Ben Bass for a workout with the team.

Since the NFL changed the spot of kickoff from the 30-yardline to the 35, Cribbs has been a relative nonfactor in the league. The former Browns returning superstar has been on a carousel of AFC rosters since becoming a free agent in March of 2013. After a short stint with the Raiders, Cribbs found a gig returning kicks for the New York Jets, not finding much success.

It’s sort of in the air as to why the Colts brought a high-profile name like Josh Cribbs in for a workout. Cribbs really is a Jack of all trades; he finds his value in returning kicks but can be utilized as a wide receiver, receiving snaps out of the backfield and even doing a little bit of throwing in the right offense. So far this season, Griff Whalen has been uninspiring in the return position for the Colts. He’s not been able to get much when receiving kickoffs and his punts require illegal blocks before he can get anywhere.

I don’t think the Colts brought Cribbs in to be a gamechanger in the offense or even to return kicks for the team. There’s a potential that Indy’s just knocking on the boots of an old veteran to light a fire under Griff Whalen and let him know that he is replaceable. Cribbs is not worth a valuable roster spot (I’m not about to cut Griff Whalen after what he did when Reggie Wayne went down last season) and he’s just way too old (31). He’d be an injury concern and really hasn’t had playmaking ability since 2009. Cribbs may have the record for most kickoff returns for touchdowns but I’m not willing to test the aging man’s legs.

Sorry Cribbs, but I think Indy makes a pass on you this time.