Searching for a new team for the first time in his 13-year NFL career, Andre Johnson placed the Indianapolis Colts atop his list in early March.
When his agent asked why, Johnson offered a concise response: "The quarterback."
Teammates at the University of Miami more than a decade ago, Johnson and Frank Gore conspired to join the Colts in the quest for an elusive Super Bowl title that they believe Luck can deliver.
Luck has exceeded expectations after just a few offseason practices.
"He's goofy. Really goofy," Johnson said, via The Indianapolis Star's Zak Keefer. "But he's smart as hell. He says, 'Do this,' and on the next play I'm wide open."
Gore is most impressed by the leadership abilities of a quarterback with just three NFL seasons under his belt.
"It's not just him listening to coaches," Gore explained. "When he's out there, he takes ownership of everything and I really like that."
It speaks to Luck's rare mix of intelligence, talent and commitment that he has already surpassed the pre-draft reports that touted him as the most NFL-ready quarterback since Peyton Manning entered the league in 1998.
Still just 25 years old, Luck reads defenses, calls out protections and makes pre-snap adjustments like a grizzled veteran.
"Andrew is at a point where as far as his understanding of an NFL defense, his perspective now is like a perspective of a coach," offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton raved, via the team's official website. "It's well documented that he's a smart guy, but now I think his overall football acumen, or should I say football aptitude, is at a point where his feedback and/or his suggestions, I really take heed of the advice that he gives."
Praise doesn't come any loftier for a young quarterback.
After two years of frustration due to shoddy quarterback play in Houston, Johnson has regained his passion for the game -- courtesy of Luck, Gore and Hamilton.
"I see why they win," Johnson recently texted his uncle, per Keefer. "I see why they win."
The latest Around The NFL Podcast discusses the latest news including Adrian Peterson's contract situation, Ryan Clady's injury and Chip Kelly's response to LeSean McCoy. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
