"While the Indianapolis Colts are known for fast linebackers who use their speed effectively in pass coverage, it's often suggested the NFL's most talented tight ends can't be covered by these defenders.

That's been said for years about the Colts' Dallas Clark. Now the same would appear to be true for emerging Jacksonville tight end Marcedes Lewis.

Lewis, when pressed on the opinion that a linebacker can't cover him, said, "I'd like to think so, too."

Colts middle linebacker Gary Brackett respectfully disagrees.

"Us linebackers, we always laugh (when we hear) who we can't cover," Brackett said. "I can cover a receiver. Look at the film.

"For me, I don't really get caught up in who I can and cannot cover. (Lewis) does a great job. He's elusive, he's like a receiver out there because he runs great pass routes, but I like my chances."

The last time these teams met Oct. 3 in Jacksonville, Lewis burned the Colts for a 15-yard touchdown catch.

The fifth-year pro has 45 catches for 574 yards and nine touchdowns, all career bests. The only tight end with more scores is San Diego's Antonio Gates with 10. Just three wide receivers have more touchdown catches.

"This is one of my best seasons," said Lewis, who had seven TD catches in his previous four seasons combined, "not as far as numbers but playing on a consistent basis in the run game and in the passing game, just being that complete tight end I know I can be. In this league, you have to show improvement or you'll be out of the league."

Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio attributes improvement to an intensified offseason commitment.

"Last year, he took a big leap forward," the coach said. "He stayed in the offseason program and really dedicated himself. This year, I think he built upon that. He led the way. He not only stayed and put in the work but was challenging others to do the same. Marcedes is maturing into a heck of a football player. He's had a super year for us.""