The Indianapolis Colts are starting a new chapter under Head Coach Shane Steichen, and they’re doing it with a clear and determined goal in mind: Mission 10. This ambitious new initiative is a commitment to regaining the glory of the past and positioning the team for a championship run. Steichen, known for his innovative offensive mind and leadership abilities, is ready to take the Colts back to the pinnacle of the NFL—the Super Bowl.
While it’s still early in his tenure with the Colts, Steichen has already made a major impact. The Mission 10 plan isn’t just about rebuilding or staying competitive; it’s about competing for the NFL Championship, starting with a return to the playoffs and ultimately, hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.
A New Era for the Colts
Steichen’s arrival in Indianapolis marks the beginning of a new era for a franchise looking to get back to its winning ways. Known for his work with quarterbacks in Philadelphia, where he helped develop Jalen Hurts into an MVP-caliber player, Steichen is poised to bring his expertise and creativity to the Colts. But his mission goes beyond just offensive innovation—Mission 10 is about total team success.
For Steichen, the focus is on laying the groundwork for sustainable success, blending the Colts’ storied tradition with a fresh, dynamic approach. Mission 10 is a plan to elevate all aspects of the team, from coaching and player development to game strategy and leadership.
What is “Mission 10”?
At its core, Mission 10 has two central objectives:
- Chasing the NFL Championship – While the Colts have had their share of success over the years, they’re hungry for more. Steichen has made it clear that the ultimate goal is the Super Bowl. The team is setting its sights on winning the NFL Championship, and it begins with building a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
- Establishing a Championship Culture – Steichen’s vision for the Colts isn’t just about one season or one playoff run. Mission 10 is about creating a culture of excellence that can be sustained for years to come. It’s about fostering a winning mentality that trickles down from the coaching staff to every player on the roster. Success, Steichen believes, is a mindset—and that mindset needs to be instilled in every facet of the organization.
Building a Playoff-Caliber Roster
To chase the NFL Championship, the Colts must first ensure they have the talent to compete at the highest level. Steichen and the Colts’ front office have made key moves in the offseason to bolster the roster, particularly at positions like quarterback, wide receiver, and the defensive line.
- Quarterback Development: The quarterback position is central to the Mission 10 plan. With the Colts selecting rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson in the 2023 NFL Draft, Steichen has an exciting young talent to mold into a star. Richardson’s athleticism and potential are undeniable, but his development as a passer will be key. Steichen, having helped refine Jalen Hurts’ game in Philadelphia, will look to unlock Richardson’s full potential and accelerate his growth into an NFL-ready quarterback.
- Wide Receiver Corps: The Colts have also worked to strengthen their receiving corps, bringing in proven playmakers to give Richardson or veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew the weapons they need to succeed. Michael Pittman Jr. has already proven himself as a reliable target, and the additions of veterans like Josh Downs will bring additional depth and firepower to the offense.
- Defensive Playmakers: The Colts’ defense, led by standout players like linebacker Shaquille Leonard and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, is a critical component of the team’s championship aspirations. Steichen’s offense will need to complement a defense that can disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers. The Colts are building a team that can win in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams.
A Focus on Leadership and Culture
One of the core tenets of Mission 10 is establishing a championship culture within the organization. Steichen’s leadership philosophy is about creating a cohesive unit where every player and coach is on the same page, working toward the same goal.
“Success doesn’t come by accident,” Steichen said in a recent interview. “It comes from relentless preparation, hard work, and accountability. Our culture is about building trust, fostering competition, and making sure that every guy knows he has a role to play in our success.”
The leadership of veterans like linebacker Bobby Okereke and running back Jonathan Taylor will be crucial in setting the tone for the team. Taylor, who has emerged as one of the top running backs in the NFL, is the kind of player who can take over a game when needed. His role in Mission 10 will be key to both the offense’s success and the team’s overall identity.
Chasing the Playoffs and Super Bowl Glory
The road to the NFL Championship begins with securing a playoff berth, and the Colts know that they must compete in a highly competitive AFC. The team will need to battle through a tough schedule, dealing with elite teams from the AFC West and AFC East. But with a solid foundation, strong leadership, and a commitment to their goals, the Colts believe that they can be a force in the postseason.
“I’m confident that with the right approach, the right players, and the right mentality, we can be a championship team,” Steichen said. “This is a process, but it’s one we’re fully committed to. The ultimate goal is to win the Super Bowl—and that’s what we’re working toward.”
Key Players to Watch
- Anthony Richardson – The rookie quarterback is the future of the franchise. How quickly he adjusts to the NFL will have a major impact on the Colts’ ability to compete for a championship.
- Jonathan Taylor – The star running back is the engine of the Colts’ offense and will need to continue to perform at a high level for the team to succeed. His versatility and playmaking ability are a big part of the team’s strategy.
- Shaquille Leonard – The leader of the defense, Leonard is one of the most dynamic linebackers in the league. His ability to disrupt offenses and create turnovers will be key in giving the Colts’ offense opportunities to shine.
- Michael Pittman Jr. – As the top receiving option, Pittman will be vital to Richardson’s development. His ability to win battles in the air and create big plays will be essential in moving the chains and scoring points.
Looking Ahead
Mission 10 is more than just a slogan for the Indianapolis Colts—it’s a blueprint for a team that wants to be a Super Bowl contender year in and year out. With Shane Steichen at the helm, the Colts are focused on creating a roster that can not only make the playoffs but win the ultimate prize.
As the 2023 season unfolds, fans in Indianapolis have reason to be excited. The Colts are on a mission to return to championship glory, and with the right mix of talent, leadership, and determination, Mission 10 could very well become a reality.
