We head to Indianapolis for our next destination on our mock draft series. The Indianapolis Colts will be getting quarterback Anthony Richardson from injury in 2024. But, will they surround him with better receivers? How about the defense? Let’s dive into it.
Picks
With the top-tier receivers off the board by pick 15, I decided to take the risk of trading down and still getting a top cornerback while getting more picks. It was a success, as the Colts were still able to nab Cooper DeJean at pick 26. He automatically comes in as an immediate starter opposite of Kenny Moore II, and does not have major holes to be concerned about. He’s just an impact player, someone Indianapolis will be happy to have.
At safety, Rodney Thomas II has had a PFF grade under 60 in the past two seasons. It’s clear an upgrade would help, which is where Tyler Nubin comes in. With great eyes and anticipation, he has the athleticism and IQ to be versatile in any scheme. If being the all-time leader in interceptions at Minnesota doesn’t say anything, I don’t know what does.
Alright, What About The Offense?
Now, it’s time to address wide receiver. Alec Pierce and Josh Downs aren’t that bad of a WR2/WR3. But, Jermaine Burton comes in and upgrades the corps. With eight touchdowns in 2023, he’s a competitive spirit and won’t back down to anyone. His release off the ball along with his quickness will cause headaches for defensive backs, and we can’t forget about his tendency to trash-talk a lot. As long as he keeps his cool, everything is going to work out.
More weapons? Okay! Enter Corley, who as we discussed in the past, is still new to the receiver position but is overall a dangerous weapon with the ball in his hands.
The final pick of day two for Indianapolis belongs to Trotter Jr, who is a smart linebacker who graded in the high 80s according to PFF the past two years. He stays disciplined, is a good run defender, and has great eyes in coverage. The major concern is that he is undersized (6’0″), and has short arms. But, it shouldn’t be too big of a concern to not play him.
My favorite day-three pick has to be Brownlee, who adds to the cornerback help the Indianapolis Colts desperately need. An aggressive press defensive back, he worked hard on his body and approach to be ready for the NFL level. He will likely start as a nickel defender and has a chance to be an outside cornerback if he continues to improve and develop. Brownlee does have quick hips and was more consistent in coverage in 2023 compared to previous seasons.
Thank You For Reading
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