Colts Can Fill Huge Holes, as 2017 NFL Draft is Deep at Key Areas of Deficiency
According to NFL Network Draft Analyst Mike Mayock, the 2017 NFL Draft is expected to be very deep at many of the Indianapolis Colts key areas of deficiency–meaning that new general manager Chris Ballard has a greater likelihood of filling some huge holes come draft weekend:
"I think this is one of the best defensive drafts I’ve seen." -@MikeMayock #MayockConferenceCall
— NFL Media (@NFLMedia) February 27, 2017
"There are eight edge rushers I have potential first round grades on." -@MikeMayock #MayockConferenceCall
— NFL Media (@NFLMedia) February 27, 2017
“I’ve got five running backs with first round grades.” -@MikeMayock #MayockConferenceCall
— NFL Media (@NFLMedia) February 27, 2017
Of course, the Colts biggest needs this offseason are pass rush, pass rush, and more pass rush, with a hint of running back, inside linebacker, cornerback, safety, and nose tackle also sprinkled in (i.e. pretty much any defensive position not named defensive end).
The starting right side of the offensive line also needs to be addressed, but that could be better solved by potentially bringing in a veteran free agent offensive lineman as well.
It just so happens that per Mayock, this year’s NFL Draft is deep at pass rusher, running back, and defensive back–as well as on defense as a whole:
What it means is that the Colts shouldn’t overthink this, as the roster has a ton of needs–especially on the defensive side of the football.
As long as their pass rushing woes get adequately addressed, the Colts could simply take the best player on the board and chances are the team could end with a really good prospect who fills an immediate hole going forward.