For Eagles’ OC Job

The Indianapolis Colts find themselves at a crossroads in the offseason, facing the potential departure of their Offensive Coordinator, Jim Bob Cooter, who is reportedly under consideration for the play-calling vacancy with the Philadelphia Eagles, as per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. This development raises the stakes for the Colts, requiring them to assess suitable replacements for Cooter and ensure continuity in their offensive strategy.

Jim Bob Cooter, at 39, served as a consultant for the Eagles in 2021, where he collaborated with both Colts’ Head Coach Shane Steichen and Eagles’ Head Coach Nick Sirianni. While it’s speculative at this stage whether Cooter would leave the Colts for a similar position with play-calling responsibilities, the Colts must be proactive in preparing for a potential vacancy.

Here are a few promising candidates who could step into the role of Offensive Coordinator for the Colts:

1. Tom Manning, Colts’ TE Coach (In-House):
– Tom Manning, aged 40, stands out as a strong in-house candidate, having served as the Offensive Coordinator and play-caller at Iowa State from 2016 to 2017 and 2019 to 2022.
– His impact on the Colts’ offense is unmistakable, evident in the implementation of RPO concepts and pistol formations during the 2023 season.
– Manning played a pivotal role in the impressive seasons of Kylen Granson and Mo Alie-Cox, making him a compelling option if the Colts prioritize internal continuity.

2. Cam Turner, Colts’ QB Coach (In-House):
– Cam Turner, at 36, offers another internal option with over a decade of NFL coaching experience. He was instrumental in guiding Gardner Minshew to league-average performance amid an early-season injury to starting quarterback Anthony Richardson.
– Turner’s familial ties to Norv Turner, a significant influence on Colts’ Head Coach Shane Steichen, position him as a potential candidate if the Colts seek a coordinator from the Norv Turner coaching tree.
– His ability to navigate challenges during the 2023 season showcases his potential to elevate the Colts’ offensive strategy.

3. Tee Martin, Baltimore Ravens’ QB Coach:
– A compelling external candidate is Tee Martin, aged 45, who previously interviewed with the Colts last offseason. His transition from WR Coach to QB Coach with the Ravens in 2023 had a transformative impact on Lamar Jackson’s performance.
– Martin’s experience and success in optimizing the passing game while maintaining a run-first approach align with the Colts’ offensive philosophy.
– His fresh perspective and proven track record make him an intriguing option for the Colts if they decide to look beyond the organization.

4. Dan Pitcher, Cincinnati Bengals’ QB Coach:
– Dan Pitcher, aged 37, offers an external perspective with eight seasons of experience in various roles with the Bengals. His previous ties to the Colts as a scouting assistant and pro scout provide a unique understanding of the organization.
– The personnel similarities between the Bengals and Colts in 2023, particularly in offensive formations, make Pitcher a candidate with the potential to bring innovative ideas to the Colts’ playbook.
– His extensive experience and familiarity with the Colts’ organization position Pitcher as an external candidate worth considering.

In navigating the potential departure of Jim Bob Cooter, the Colts have a mix of internal expertise and external perspectives to choose from. The decision will be critical in maintaining offensive prowess and adapting to any changes in coaching personnel.