The Indianapolis Colts are kicking off their rookie minicamp, and it's shaping up to be a busy two-day event on May 8-9. While the focus is naturally on the team's eight draft picks and 12 undrafted free agent signings, that's just the start of the action.

In addition to those 20 newcomers, the Colts are also welcoming eight players already on the roster who have less than one accrued NFL season. This group includes running back Ulysses Bentley, cornerbacks Robert Carter Jr. and Wyett Ekeler, guard LaDarius Henderson, wide receiver Owen Coleman, defensive tackle Tim Smith, tight end Carson Towt, and linebacker Devin Veresuk.

But the real story here is the sheer volume of tryout talent. Teams are allowed to bring in additional players for a look—either undrafted rookies who didn't find a team or those with some NFL experience. For this minicamp, the Colts are hosting a whopping 31 players for tryouts, all of them rookies, according to Mike Chappell of FOX59.

While the on-field work will be limited to non-contact practices, the real value of these sessions goes beyond drills. For the incoming draft picks and undrafted free agents, it's a crash course in NFL playbooks and practice routines—essential building blocks for a successful transition to the pro game.

Whether you're a die-hard Colts fan or just love the drama of roster battles, this minicamp is a fascinating glimpse at the future. And for those of you stocking up on gear for the season ahead, remember: every great NFL journey starts with a tryout.