The Facts: One under-discussed aspect of the Indianapolis Colts' 2014 prospects is the return of Allen. OC Pep Hamilton had big plans for Allen last year before the athletic tight end was lost for the season due to hip surgery. That loss should not be understated, as Allen's ability in both the run and pass game opens up the offense in ways no other player on the Colts' roster can. "It makes us a better football team," Colts TEs coach Alfredo Roberts said of a healthy Allen. "Getting him back is like getting a brand new player."

Diehards Line: As NFL.com suggests, Allen is a perfect complement to outside weapons in Coby Fleener, Reggie Wayne, T.Y. Hilton, Hakeem Nicks, Da'Rick Rogers and rookie Donte Moncrief. Losing him last season was noticeable as Hamilton's original game plan called for a run-heavy base offense. The scheme was like a weight around the Colts' offense the first part of the season, until an adjustment was made. Had Allen been in the lineup, his ability to block could have helped lift some of that weight (though NFL.com contents the decision not to ride Andrew Luck was wrongheaded from the get go.) Whatever the case, the Colts can boast a more versatile and potent scheme with Allen healthy. Considering the pervasiveness of no-huddle and up-tempo offenses today, a player with Allen's ability to stay on the field in every situation is becoming more and more vital to success.