Laquon Malik Treadwell, born on June 14, 1995, has carved out a unique path in the demanding world of professional football. A highly touted prospect out of college, Treadwell’s NFL career has been a testament to perseverance, as he has navigated various teams and roles, consistently fighting for his place in the league. This article delves into his journey, from his electrifying college days to his current standing with the Indianapolis Colts, covering the key aspects that fans and analysts often inquire about.
Early Life and High School Dominance
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Laquon Treadwell quickly established himself as a prodigious talent in high school. Attending Crete-Monee High School in suburban Chicago, he showcased an exceptional skillset that transcended positions. While primarily a wide receiver, he even spent time as the team’s quarterback during his freshman year and contributed on defense as well. His high school career culminated in him finishing as the second-leading receiver in Illinois prep history with an astounding 3,563 yards.
His senior year was particularly remarkable, leading Crete-Monee to a perfect 14-0 record and a Class 6A state title. During this championship season, Treadwell reeled in 81 catches for 1,424 yards and 16 touchdowns, adding 257 rushing yards and seven more scores on the ground. These incredible efforts earned him prestigious accolades, including Chicago Tribune Player of the Year and All-American selections from various outlets like Under Armour and USA Today. Beyond the gridiron, Treadwell also demonstrated his athletic prowess on the basketball court, averaging impressive numbers in points and rebounds. This multi-sport background highlighted his natural athleticism and competitive drive.
Collegiate Stardom at Ole Miss
Laquon Treadwell’s arrival at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) was met with immense anticipation, and he did not disappoint. He quickly made his mark on the Southeastern Conference (SEC), showcasing the talent that made him a five-star recruit.
As a true freshman in 2013, Treadwell exploded onto the college scene, setting Ole Miss freshman records with 72 receptions for 608 receiving yards and five touchdown catches. He was named SEC Freshman of the Year, a first for any player in Ole Miss history. His sophomore season in 2014 saw him continue to be a vital part of the Rebels’ offense, despite suffering a significant leg injury that cut his season short. This injury, a broken leg and dislocated ankle, was a major setback but also a defining moment in his career, showcasing his resilience in recovery.
Undeterred, Treadwell returned with a vengeance for his junior season in 2015, delivering a spectacular performance that cemented his legacy at Ole Miss. He tallied 82 receptions for 1,153 yards and 11 touchdowns, leading the SEC in both receiving yards and touchdown receptions. He set new single-season school records for receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches, including a remarkable streak of six consecutive games with a touchdown. His exceptional play earned him second-team All-American honors and first-team All-SEC recognition. He finished his collegiate career as Ole Miss’ all-time leading pass catcher with 202 receptions, ranking third in receiving yards with 2,393 and touchdowns with 21. His ability to consistently make plays and his impressive recovery from injury made him one of the most compelling prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft.
NFL Journey: A Test of Durability and Adaptation
Laquon Treadwell entered the NFL Draft in 2016 as a highly touted wide receiver, ultimately being selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round with the 23rd overall pick. His professional journey, however, has been characterized by a series of transitions and a persistent effort to find a consistent role.
His rookie season with the Vikings in 2016 was quiet, as he recorded just one reception for 15 yards in nine games. He saw increased playing time in 2017 and 2018, with his best season in Minnesota coming in 2018 when he posted a single-season career-high 35 receptions for 302 yards and one touchdown. Despite flashes of potential, Treadwell struggled to consistently live up to his first-round billing in Minnesota.
Following his tenure with the Vikings, Treadwell embarked on a journey across multiple NFL teams. He spent time with the Atlanta Falcons (2020), where he managed 6 receptions for 49 yards and two touchdowns in five games. His 2021 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars proved to be a more productive one, as he saw action in 12 games (seven starts) and accumulated 33 receptions for 434 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his ability to contribute when given a larger opportunity.
The subsequent years saw him continue to bounce between practice squads and active rosters for teams like the New England Patriots (2022), Arizona Cardinals (2022), Seattle Seahawks (2022), and Baltimore Ravens (2023). In 2023, with the Ravens, he played in five games, recording one catch for 16 yards. These stops highlight the transient nature of many NFL careers and Treadwell’s determination to remain in the league.
Current Status: With the Indianapolis Colts
As of the latest available information in June 2025, Laquon Treadwell is a professional football wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). He signed a reserve/futures contract with the Colts in January 2025. During the 2024 campaign, Treadwell spent time on the Colts’ practice squad and was elevated for two regular-season games, though he wasn’t targeted in either contest.
His current contract with the Colts is a 1-year deal worth $1,255,000, with an average annual salary of the same amount. He is set to earn a base salary of $1,255,000 in 2025. This move signifies his continued commitment to staying in the NFL and competing for a roster spot. He will spend the upcoming offseason aiming to solidify a more substantial role with the Colts for the 2025 season.
Playing Style and Strengths: A Physical Receiver
Laquon Treadwell’s playing style has always been characterized by his physical attributes. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing around 215 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for an NFL wide receiver. His strengths revolve around his ability to win contested catches, his strong hands, and his aggressive approach to the game.
From his college days, Treadwell was lauded for his “spectacular hands and ball skills.” He consistently demonstrated an innate ability to snatch the ball out of the air, even in traffic, often using his superior length and strength to outmuscle defenders. This “hands catcher” mentality meant he rarely let the ball get into his body, a hallmark of reliable pass-catchers. Furthermore, his body control and tracking ability allowed him to adjust to errant throws and make difficult receptions.
While some analysts noted a perceived lack of elite straight-line speed at the time of the draft, Treadwell compensated with excellent route running and a natural feel for finding open spaces in coverage. He was known for sliding into voids on in-breaking routes, providing a large and reliable target for his quarterbacks. His willingness to engage in hand-fighting against press coverage, combined with his strength, often allowed him to gain separation at the line of scrimmage. He also displayed good after-the-catch ability, using his power to break tackles and gain extra yards.
Beyond his receiving prowess, Treadwell has consistently shown a commitment to blocking in the run game, a trait highly valued by NFL coaches. This willingness to contribute beyond catching passes further solidifies his utility as a well-rounded wide receiver. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his competitive demeanor and mature approach to the game, essential qualities for navigating the highs and lows of professional football.
The Role of Durability and Adaptability
One of the most defining aspects of Laquon Treadwell’s NFL career has been his durability and adaptability. After a serious leg injury in college, his ability to bounce back and continue playing at a high level speaks volumes about his physical and mental toughness. This resilience has been a consistent theme, allowing him to extend his career even when faced with significant challenges.
His journey across multiple teams – from the Vikings to the Falcons, Jaguars, Patriots, Cardinals, Seahawks, Ravens, and now the Colts – underscores his adaptability. In a league where roster spots are fiercely contested, Treadwell has demonstrated the versatility to fit into different offensive schemes and embrace various roles, whether as a starting receiver or a valuable contributor on special teams and as a depth piece. His willingness to sign practice squad deals and fight his way back onto active rosters exemplifies his unwavering dedication to the sport.
For many players, being a first-round pick comes with immense pressure and expectations. When those expectations aren’t immediately met, it can lead to a quick exit from the league. However, Treadwell has defied this narrative, proving that a career can be forged through grit and a continuous desire to improve. His ability to find new landing spots and contribute, even in smaller capacities, highlights his value as a professional.
Impact Beyond the Stat Sheet
While raw receiving statistics might not place Laquon Treadwell among the league’s perennial Pro Bowlers, his impact often extends beyond what appears in the box score. His physical presence can draw attention from defenses, potentially opening up opportunities for other receivers. His willingness to block on run plays is a less glamorous but equally crucial contribution to an offense’s success.
Furthermore, his veteran presence and experience, especially having played for so many different teams, can be invaluable in the locker room. He understands the demands of the NFL and the dedication required to stay in the league, making him a potential mentor for younger players. His story is a powerful example of perseverance for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that a successful professional career can take many forms and is not solely defined by early-career expectations.
Laquon Treadwell: Frequently Asked Questions
Many fans and observers have questions about Laquon Treadwell’s career, from his early days to his current status in the NFL. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries.
What team does Laquon Treadwell play for now?
As of June 2025, Laquon Treadwell is a wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). He signed a reserve/futures contract with the team in January 2025 and is preparing to compete for a roster spot in the upcoming season.
Where did Laquon Treadwell play college football?
Laquon Treadwell played his collegiate football at the University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss. He was a standout receiver for the Ole Miss Rebels from 2013 to 2015, setting several school records during his tenure.
When was Laquon Treadwell drafted and by what team?
Laquon Treadwell was selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, with the 23rd overall pick. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings.
What are Laquon Treadwell’s career stats in the NFL?
Across his NFL career, Laquon Treadwell has accumulated 111 receptions for 1,242 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns over 83 games played. These statistics reflect his journey through multiple teams and varying roles since entering the league.
Looking Ahead with the Colts
As Laquon Treadwell enters the 2025 season with the Indianapolis Colts, he continues to embark on the next chapter of his NFL journey. His reserve/futures contract offers him another opportunity to compete for a roster spot and contribute to a team looking to build on its foundation. While he wasn’t targeted in his limited appearances with the Colts in 2024, the offseason and training camp will be crucial for him to demonstrate his continued ability to make plays and earn a consistent role.
For fans, Treadwell’s career remains a compelling narrative. It’s a story not just of a talented athlete, but of a determined individual who has faced adversity head-on and refused to give up on his dream. His continued presence in the NFL, nearly a decade after being drafted, is a testament to his character, work ethic, and enduring love for the game of football. As he prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Laquon Treadwell to see what new chapters he can write in his remarkable journey.
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