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The Colts and head coach Frank Reich are hoping to help Carson Wentz turn his career around in Indy. But how much pressure is on the quarterback, and how much is on Reich as the team’s play-caller?
In an interview with 1070 The Fan’s Kevin Bowen (linked here), Reich talked about his reactions to the big-armed quarterback being available after the end of the 2020 season.
“I just remember the discussion, at one point, me saying, ‘Hey, Chris, I don’t know if it’s possible, but my two cents on the matter is if it’s possible, then can you please make that happen?,’ Reich said.
It’s easy to see why Reich would so ecstatic about landing his former quarterback during his time as the offensive coordinator in Philadelphia. Under Reich, Wentz put up some of the best number statistically during the 2017 season, tossing 33 touchdowns to only 7 interceptions and throwing for 3,296 yards. Had Wentz not torn his ACL in the game against the Los Angeles Rams, he likely would’ve been the MVP for that season.
At one point, the head coach had his doubts about being able to acquire the former MVP candidate.
“I never thought it was going to be possible,” Reich said. “I just didn’t think it was going to work out the way it did, but I’m certainly glad it did.”
Make no mistake, Wentz’s talent — as pointed out by local and national media, is certainly there. But even Reich knows that getting his quarterback in the appropriate place is going to take time.
“We’ve got a long way to go,” Reich said. “Carson’s really looked good, and I really do think it can be a win-win for both organizations. I know we’re really excited to have Carson.”
Additionally, Reich mentioned that he had watched some of Wentz’s film from 2020, but has confidence that he, the rest of the coaching staff and the team around him can help the once star quarterback revive his career.
“Yeah, you’re concerned about interceptions and sacks,” Reich said. “I’ve seen the a lot of the other side. You just gotta put it past you, hit the reset button, learn from it and move on.”
Not only will massive upgrades in weapons help the 28-year-old quarterback, but both Wentz and Reich have faith in one another’s abilities and they’re ready to do whatever needed to help the team win this season.
“It’s a natural thing for any athlete to say, ‘Alright, I’m gonna go back to the basics.’ Reich said. “Carson’s come in here with that mentality, with that real coachable spirit.”
We know Reich is one of the league’s best play-callers, and he’s going to do everything he can to put his quarterback in the best possible position to be successful. Ultimately, though, it’ll be up to Wentz to not only take of the elite weapons and top-tier coaching staff around him, but to perform at a consistent and adequate level this season.