The road to the 53-man roster in the NFL can be filled with twists and turns. There will be unexpected bumps, be they injuries or other unforeseen developments.



But, in every case, the moves must generally be driven by a blueprint. You cannot set out on this journey without a road map. Building an NFL roster is difficult enough. It is made only more challenging by failing to adhere to some kind of plan.



Which brings us to the Indianapolis Colts.



Once they were done reducing their roster to the NFL-mandated limit on Saturday afternoon, there was no question what their driving principle is: The Colts are doubling down on their youth.



There was no greater example than their decision to release veteran edge player John Simon, choosing instead to give his snaps to players like second-round pick Kemoko Turay and last year’s third-round choice, Tarell Basham.



Whether you agree with the approach or scoff at it, let there be no confusion: The...