Oct 5, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Ashton Dulin (16) is unable to make a catch against Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly (36) during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

A gamble by the Colts that some critized ended up paying off in a big way during Week 5 win over the Raiders

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Destin Adams | Last updated Oct 5, 2025 8:15 PM ET

The Indianapolis Colts had some decisions to make this week following their Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The one talked about the most ahead of Week 5 was what they would do about the massive mistakes made by WR Adonai Mitchell, which arguably cost them a win. Many were begging to make the young WR inactive in Week 5 as a punishment, but the team took a different approach.

The Colts made Mitchell active but gave his starting role to veteran Ashton Dulin. The hope was that Dulin's high-floor play would give the team more stable production from the position. There was some pushback on this idea from some members of the fan base. But it's hard to argue their choice after Dulin's performance in the team's win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

another dub‼️ pic.twitter.com/H7HTjEy968
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 5, 2025

Ashton Dulin shines after he starts over Adonai Mitchell

Dulin got the start in place of Alec Pierce, who remains in the league's concussion protocol, and he made the most of his opportunity. He caught two of his five targets for a team-high 55 yards on top of making plays on special teams and being one of the team's top run blockers among skill players. Dulin was productive and, more importantly, didn't hurt the team.

I would have preferred for Mitchell to get the chance to make up for his mistakes from last week while playing, rather than facing a demotion. Dulin proved the Colts correct with his strong play, though, and showed how he can be a plus contributor when his number is called. If Pierce is back next week, he will retake his spot in the starting lineup, but if he can't clear the league's concussion protocol, Dulin would again get the start over Mitchell.

Ashton Dulin making the most of his opportunity today#Colts #ForTheShoe #Raiders #LVvsIND pic.twitter.com/gAJ5rr5qdI
— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) October 5, 2025