AFC Notes: Colts, Jaguars, Texans

Colts

• NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport reports the Colts signed new HC Shane Steichen to a six-year deal. 

• CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones writes Colts owner Jim Irsay may have tipped the team’s hand when he said they hired Steichen in part because of his experience working with high-level quarterbacks: “Knowing that we’re going to have to find a young quarterback to develop is a key factor.”
• But Jones notes it was pretty clear already the Colts are going to target a quarterback with their first-round pick, which as of right now is No. 4 overall. The big questions are if they need to trade up and who they have their eyes on. 
• Irsay drew attention when he specifically mentioned Alabama QB Bryce Young: “The Alabama guy doesn’t look bad, I’ll tell ya.”
• However, sources told Jones not to discount Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud, who is seen as a top prospect in his own right and might check some important boxes for GM Chris Ballard like size.
• Young will be historically small for the position, as Jones says he’s expected to measure in at the Combine at 5-11 and less than 190 pounds. Under Ballard, the Colts have placed a premium on size when acquiring players.

Jaguars

• John Shipley notes that following his application for reinstatement, the NFL may wind up reinstating WR Calvin Ridley in March rather than in February. 

Texans

• Aaron Wilson reports the Texans are retaining DL coach Jacques Cesaire for the 2023 season.
• Wilson also reports Houston is hiring former Browns   DL coach Chris Kiffin to become their next linebackers coach.