How good can Colts guard Quenton Nelson be?

The Colts used their first round pick in April on the guard from Notre Dame. How has he done so far, and how good could he be down the line?

Quenton Nelson is the type of player the Colts should’ve drafted years ago. He is a stout offensive lineman who has good movement and can blow defenders off the snap of the ball. He has done that so far this season, but how good can this kid get in the future?

Nelson has the capability of being an All-Pro for the next ten years. He’s that good. He does things at such a young age that most people can’t do until late in their careers. Nelson already has a good understand of leverage and how to use his hands. That should only get better.

The concern is with the players around him. Nelson starts at left guard. The left tackle position has been an issue so far this season with Anthony Castonzo being out. So Nelson has been playing alongside a backup all three games so far. That can lead to bad habits.

Having Nelson on the left side does give the Colts some stability though. He can pass block well and give Andrew Luck some time in the pocket. His run blocking is pretty good too, but the rest of the offensive line still needs to do better with that.

Ultimately, Nelson could be an elite lineman for years to come. If he can stay healthy and continue to get better every week, there’s no reason he can’t be. Nelson is also very coachable and wants to learn everything he possibly can about football. That will help too.

The Colts hope he can live up to his potential. If the first three weeks are any indication, he will.