The Indianapolis Colts have an apprentice coach on hand as they began Phase 2 of offseason workouts. That teacher happens to be one of the team's all-time greats, Reggie Wayne.
"Oh man, Reggie, he's the best," Reich told the team's official website. "And sometimes as a coach, when you get a former player that's done what someone like Reggie has done -- which few people have done what Reggie has done -- we're always excited. But furthermore, when you actually coached the guy, it takes it to a whole new level of excitement, because I know the kind of person and the kind of pro that we're getting. I know his knowledge of the game, his leadership on the field -- really, with the whole team -- but specifically with the wide receiver group can be dynamic."
After his 14-year career in Indy, Wayne has been working as an NFL Network analyst. The six-time Pro Bowler has considered switching gears to coaching. Getting hands-on training in a low-intense setting like offseason workouts could inform Wayne's decision.
"Well, I think it's an important part of the process for a player," Reich said. "I mean, it's not an easy transition to go from player to coach. I mean, everybody would think it would be seamless, it would be easy, but it's a different deal.
"And, you know, I think when you kind of go the [internship/volunteer] route, it allows the player to make sure, 'Hey, I know I love the game, I know I love being with the guys, but this is a huge commitment. And does it all work, does it all fit?'" Reich continued. "And it gives you a chance to grow into it without that pressure of going all-in right from the start."
Wayne's former teammate, Robert Mathis, is working for a second season as a pass-rush consultant for the Colts.
