The Colts make a sneaky move on the former first-round pick before facing the Patriots

Given the state of the Indianapolis Colts’ wide receiver room heading into their Week 13 game against the New England Patriots, the team made some roster moves to strengthen themselves. Among those changes, the Colts have activated former first-round pick Laquon Treadwell from the team’s practice squad, according to Jim Irsay on X, formerly known as Twitter.

After an incredible career with the Ole Miss Rebels, Treadwell was selected with the 23rd pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2016. Since being drafted, however, Treadwell has played for six different teams in his nine-year career.

In his nine years in the NFL, Treadwell has totaled 111 receptions, 1,242 yards and five touchdowns. While he shined in college as the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2013, his transition to the NFL was somewhat disappointing.

However, with the Colts, Treadwell has another chance to shine and secure a more prominent spot on the roster.

Colts activate former first-round WR Laquon Treadwell from the practice squad

With Josh Downs out Sunday against the Patriots, the Colts are worryingly thin at the wide receiver position. Both Alec Pierce and Michael Pittman are expected to play, although both remain questionable on the team’s injury report.

However, with Downs not playing, quarterback Anthony Richardson will look to use Treadwell. In addition to Treadwell, the Colts hope to see more from rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell to ensure the passing game doesn’t falter.

With 25th points in the league, the Patriots defense is beatable. This gave the Colts the 21st most points in the league, showing that they are not the strongest unit in the NFL.

Richardson has looked better since being benched in Weeks 9 and 10, but without downs the offense could see a noticeable difference.

And while it’s unlikely given how the first nine years have gone, Treadwell could theoretically have a noticeable impact. Given the lack of competition in front of him due to injuries and poor playing ability, there is an opportunity to shine.

However, Treadwell could be in for a rude awakening if he isn’t productive against the Patriots. Downs is expected to return to play every week, and if Treadwell continues to underperform, sending him back to the practice squad won’t be a difficult decision for the team.

Considering how weak the AFC South has been this season, the 5-7 Colts have a real chance of making the playoffs if they finish the season on a high note.

However, whether their newly signed former first-round pick will have a major impact remains to be determined.