The NFL’s Supplemental Draft is this Thursday, July 9th at 1 PM EST, and it’s possible that there could be a prospect that the Indianapolis Colts could actually be interested in.
While there are actually four prospects in this year’s supplemental prospect pool, there’s really only one player who should draw the majority of interest from NFL teams in Clemson’s Isaiah Battle. The 6’7″, 290 pound offensive tackle is widely considered the best prospect available in this year’s supplemental draft, having recently declared to leave Clemson early after just his junior season.
According to Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports, Battle would’ve been one of the best senior offensive tackle prospects in next year’s draft had he remained in school:
"“Battle, listed by Clemson at 6-foot-7, 290, is regarded by one of the two major NFL scouting bureaus as the second-highest ranked offensive tackle prospect behind Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley — a projected top-10 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft — among the senior class. Entering this season, the scouting bureau also had Battle projected as a potential first-round pick, sliding into the back of the round,” writes Feldman."
However, while he was involved in a handful of discipline issues while at Clemson including a citation for possession of marijuana recently in June, Battle actually left Clemson on his own accord, citing personal reasons (via NFL.com):
"“I have some family matters to address, with a child due this summer, and I feel it is in my best interest to enter the NFL Supplemental Draft,” Battle said. “I want to thank everyone at Clemson, especially Coach Swinney and the assistant coaches, for what they have done for me the last three years. I also want to thank my teammates. They have all had a big impact on my career.”"
Battle started in 16 games for the Tigers, including 11 starts in 12 games last season as a junior. However, with a pro day scheduled for tomorrow on July 7th, he’ll now be looking to draw the attention of pro scouts and successfully take his game to the next level.
Nov 22, 2014; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) celebrates with teammates including Isaiah Battle (#79) after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Georgia State Panthers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
While there are a number of tackle-depleted NFL teams rumored to be interested, most notably the Atlanta Falcons, it appears that Battle could pique the interest of the Colts as well if the price is right. The team faces uncertainty about the health of starting right tackle Gosder Cherilus going forward, who’s rehabilitating from a knee injury and is coming off a fairly underwhelming season hampered by injuries.
With Cherilus’ health in question, the team is turning to Jack Mewhort as his primary potential replacement. While the latter is more than capable of filling in, he’s probably more of a natural guard all things considered. It wouldn’t necessarily be a bad idea to bring in a highly regarded offensive tackle prospect for additional depth and to groom as the long-term answer at right tackle.
It’s worth noting that West Georgia defensive lineman Dalvon Stuckey and Darrius Caldwell, as well as North Carolina Central wideout Adrian Wilkins are also expected to be among the prospects available in this year’s supplemental draft.
No prospect has been selected in the NFL’s supplemental draft since the Cleveland Browns used a 2nd round selection on Josh Gordon in 2012. With Battle in the fold, that is likely to change whether it be to the Colts or another potential NFL destination.
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