Colts GM Ryan Grigson, O-Line Coach Joe Philbin Attend MSU Pro Day
According to NFL.com, both Indianapolis Colts general manager Ryan Grigson and offensive line coach Joe Philbin attended Michigan State’s pro day on Wednesday:
All 32 NFL teams represented at Mich. St. pro day. #Colts GM Grigson, #Dolphins GM Grier in attendance. Colts OL coach Philbin also present.
— NFL Draft (@NFLDraft) March 16, 2016
Of course, Philbin’s presence indicates that the Colts could be heavily interested in prized offensive tackle Jack Conklin—who they interviewed at the NFL Combine, as well as perhaps center Jack Allen.
Currently, Conklin is projected to be an early first round pick, but may be available at pick #18 for the Colts. Meanwhile, Allen is projected to be a round 3-4 pick by many draft experts.
Other Spartan prospects of note are quarterback Connor Cook, defensive end Shilique Calhoun, and linebacker Ed Davis.
However, it’s the Michigan State offensive lineman that appear to pique the Colts interest. Grigson recently alluded to drafting an offensive lineman or two at the NFL Combine:
"“Well obviously we need to protect our quarterback better,” said Grigson. “There’s a lot of different ways to do that. I think that every team in this league knows no matter if you have a line full of 1’s (first round picks), your quarterback is going to get hit.”“You have to find ways whether it be from acquiring better talent, smarter players, schemes, there’s a lot of different ways to protect your quarterback,” added Grigson. “Obviously, drafting is a very key component to building an offensive line.”"
Either Conklin or Allen–perhaps both could go a long way towards improving the Colts offensive line going forward.