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Colts 2018 NFL Draft Analysis: Quenton Nelson

By Ryan Stano

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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With the draft over, it’s time to do an in depth analysis for every Colts draft pick. First up is first round draft pick Quenton Nelson.

Guard Quenton Nelson was the sixth overall pick in the draft. GM Chris Ballard had his highest draft pick so far, and he knew he couldn’t miss. Based on everything that he has said, then the Indianapolis Colts got their man.

Nelson was ranked as the top offensive lineman by most draft experts. Watching his tape, it’s easy to see why. He is a big strong guy who destroys defensive tackles in their wake. He controls the line of scrimmage with ease and can get to the second level well.

The Colts needed someone like this to protect Andrew Luck. They need someone who is a mauler up front, and that’s exactly what Nelson is. While pass protection is critical, opening holes in the running game is almost as equally important. And Nelson does that very well too.

In terms of needs, this was at the top of the list for the Colts. They got the man they targeted, and were able to trade down to do it. They got three extra picks from the Jets and still got the player they wanted. That makes this pick extra good.

Nelson should be an immediate starter. He will be plugged into either guard position and should excel at both. He more than likely would be put on the left side to help protect Luck’s blind side in pass protection situations.

Next: Colts Release 7 Players After NFL Draft

Ballard did a good job with this pick. This is the man they should have taken no matter who was left on the board. Having a foundational piece along the offensive line was step one in this draft, and they built on that later in the draft. This is an excellent pick for the Colts.

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