NFL Power Rankings, Preseason Week 1: Rookie QBs steal the show

Aug 14, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trey Lance (5) warms up before a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trey Lance (5) warms up before a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
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2021 NFL Power Rankings
Aug 15, 2021; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Jacob Eason (9) passes the ball in the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

. Previous: 13th. Indianapolis Colts. 19. team. 46.

When the Indianapolis Colts traded for Carson Wentz, they knew it was a bit of a risk. The former second overall pick in 2016 has had his success but he’s also dealt with several injuries throughout his career.

The worst was in 2017 which also happened to be his best campaign as a pro. Wentz was playing at an MVP level before suffering a torn ACL that ended his season. In his place went Nick Foles who promptly led the Eagles to a Super Bowl.

Wentz never rediscovered that success he was having in 2017 even though the team committed to him over Foles long-term. And just one season after paying him, he was on the bench behind Jalen Hurts. And then in the offseason, he was traded to the Colts where he was reunited with Frank Reich, his offensive coordinator in Philly back when he was playing well.

The way these two worked together is why there was hope he could be back to his old self but as we went into the first weekend of the preseason, we were reminded about his durability since he’s out following foot surgery and his availability for the first week of the regular season is in doubt.

Jacob Eason played in his place on Sunday and was fine with 183 yards passing but he did lose a fumble on one play. Indy did have some solid play from a couple of their young receivers — which they need in the worst way — but overall, it feels like this year can get away from them if Wentz doesn’t stay healthy.