
8. Hassan Ridgeway, Defensive Lineman
Because of Jones’ uncertain future listed before him and promising 2nd-year pro Henry Anderson‘s own ongoing rehabilitation from a season-ending ACL, rookie defensive lineman Hassan Ridgeway could have some big horseshoes to fill along the Colts defensive line.
In a loaded defensive line draft class, Ridgeway fell to the Colts in Round 4 because of weight and durability concerns, but has the talent of an early round draft pick.
Specifically, his ability to provide an interior pass rush could help to boost the Colts ability to get after the quarterback–something that has been sorely lacking:
New Colt Hassan Ridgeway had a 10.6 pass rush productivity against Power-5 opposition, 3rd-best in this interior defender class
— PFF College (@PFF_College) April 30, 2016
The Colts were likely hoping to bring Ridgeway along a bit slower, as he came out a year early as a junior for the Texas Longhorns. However, there’s at least a decent chance that he’ll begin the season as a starter along the Colts defensive line, and not just a rotational defensive lineman for the team from the get-go.