AFC South Notes: Colts, Jaguars, Blake Bortles

Colts

Colts GM Chris Ballard explained that while they have a lot of cap space to work with next year, once they begin to address their core players, there isn’t going to be as much money to spend in free agency as some think.

“You don’t win games in March,” Ballard said on Pat McAfee’s podcast, via Pro Football Talk. “I know people get excited, and tell themselves this is the one missing piece.

“That money will evaporate faster than people think whenever you start handing out contracts to your own people. You want your players to know you’re gonna take care of them.”

• Colts HC Frank Reich said Wednesday that TE Jack Doyle (kidney) has been released from the hospital and they’re: “Encouraged by the results of the procedure.” (Kevin Bowen)
• Reich mentioned that RB Marlon Mack is still in the concussion protocol.

Blake Bortles

• Jaguars QB Blake Bortles on his future with the team beyond this season: “I think that’s definitely big-picture thing but not necessarily something that I’m worried about right now. I’m just thinking about how can I go and help these guys. How can I help Cody [Kessler] or help Scott [Milanovich] or whoever it may be and try and win a football game and let the rest of it sort itself out when the season’s over.” (Michael DiRocco)

Jaguars

Jaguars RB Carlos Hyde admitted he’s frustrated with his role and the lack of carries he’s received since arriving in Jacksonville.

“I went from starter [Cleveland] to not getting the ball at all, down to third string,” Hyde said, via the Florida Times-Union. “Yes, it’s frustrating but I have to be patient for my time to come back around. When it comes, I’ll be ready.”

“The only reason I got more [carries] was because Leonard went out,” Hyde added. “I just want to play more and be more involved.”

• Jaguars HC Doug Marrone said he has a “high level of concern” that CB Jalen Ramsey won’t be able to play on Sunday because of injury. (Hays Carlyon)