Colts wait on decision from Harrison

In the wake of a knee injury to Indianapolis Colts' WR Marvin Harrison, the Colts were forced to play without him for much of the 2007 season. Contributions from Reggie Wayne and then-rookie Anthony Gonzalez played a big part in the Colts' success throughout 2007.

Passing on DT Alan Branch in the 2006 NFL draft (a move that was questioned by many), the Colts drafted Gonzalez with their first-round pick in an effort to make him a No. 3 receiver in the slot; a place previously held by Brandon Stokley, who now resides with Denver. Gonzalez didn't get much playing time in his intended position due to Harrison's knee injury. Instead, he took over as a No. 2 (at times, a No. 1) receiver throughout most of the season and contributed efficiently, filling in for Harrison.

Gonzalez's speed and route running are nearly equivalent to Harrison when viewed on tape. His ability to explode down the seam with Dallas Clark and make himself open could make him a big-play threat for years to come. The Colts intend on making Gonzalez a long-term fixture at the wide receiver position.

Catching 104 passes for 1,510 yards and 10 touchdowns, fan-favorite Wayne had his best season as a Colt and was honored with a second-straight trip to the Pro Bowl. The often-overshadowed Wayne broke the attention barrier (that Harrison always received) in 2007. Though he doesn't possess the route-running ability that Harrison brings to the table, his physical gifts could make him a number one receiver on any other team. Unlike Harrison, Wayne doesn't shy away from contact and his true strengths show up after he catches the ball.

The status on Harrison remains a mystery. As of mid-March, Harrison hasn't announced a hint about retirement. Harrison, who hardly speaks to the media before or after a game, is well-known for being quiet about anything, whether it be a topic on or off the field.

Though the Colts proved that they could survive the loss of Harrison if he were to retire, the three-wide-receiver set that was intended to be used with Gonzalez in the lineup only lasted for three regular season games and would like to be implemented for the 2008 season.

Before 2007, Harrison showed no signs of slowing down. His ability to run crisp, fast routes tops that of any receiver in the league and strikes fear in opposing defensive coordinators. If Harrison finds a one-on-one matchup, it's almost always a touchdown unless Manning were to get sacked or choose to throw it away. Manning and Harrison share a special bond on the field and use body signals to communicate. No cornerback has been able to successfully cover Harrison in one-on-one situations, and he often makes Champ Bailey or division rival Rashean Mathis look human.

Though his time is running out, if Harrison were to come back for his 14th season, the Colts could avoid drafting a wide receiver and address other needs in April. For what it's worth, Wayne has gone on the record that he still needs Harrison in the lineup.
----
(Editor's note: Bryan Ault is a student at Brownstown Central High School and writes columns for The Tribune).