Antonio Callaway finds last-gasp opportunity in NFL

If you have exceptional athleticism, you’re always going to find another opportunity to succeed in the National Football League. That’s certainly proven true for wide receiver Antonio Callaway, as the Indianapolis Colts are the latest team to offer him a place to land.

Callaway has earned a tryout with the Colts at their mini-camp, which is the last-gasp sort of opportunity provided in the NFL. That might mean it’s Indy or nothing at this point for a receiver who once looked like an ascending young star for the Cleveland Browns.

Callaway first entered the NFL as a pick of former Kansas City Chiefs general manager John Dorsey after leaving for the same role in Cleveland’s front office. Callaway was the Browns’ fourth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft after showing off his speed, agility, and footwork as a receiver and returner for the Florida Gators.

Former Chiefs wide receiver Antonio Callaway is likely on his last chance in the NFL while trying out with the Colts.

In his first season, Callaway ended up starting 11 games and playing in all 16 and put up 586 yards and 5 touchdowns on 43 catches while earning time on kick and punt returns. After a full year in the league, however, the character concerns that made him a red flag as a college prospect began to surface at the pro level as he was suspended multiple times and was ultimately waived.

Callaway ended up playing in the XFL for a bit before injuring his leg after that since he was facing a lengthy NFL suspension of 10 games. The Miami Dolphins provided an opportunity in 2020 and that’s where he served his time away properly, but even when returning, he wasn’t able to earn any real snaps for the Fins.

Last season, the Chiefs decided to extend an opportunity to Callaway via a futures contract in the winter, much like they have this offseason with Corey Coleman, but nothing came of it. The team ended up waiving him with an injury settlement in late August.