Colts trade up to take safety Khari Willis in 4th round

The Colts decided to trade up for once and took Khari Willis in the fourth round. They must really like this safety out of Michigan State.

Safety was a need going into the draft for the Colts, and they waited until the fourth round to address it. But address it they did, drafting Khari Willis from Michigan State. They actually gave up their other fourth round pick in order to move up to take him.

Willis started his final two years in East Lansing. He has three career interceptions and seven passes defended. He also has two career forced fumbles. Willis was a part of a stout defense at Michigan State, and rarely allowed players to get behind him for big plays.

Willis will give the Colts some depth at the safety position something they didn’t have prior to drafting him. That is especially true at the strong safety position, which is currently occupied by oft-injured Clayton Geathers as the starter.

The Colts have done a good job hitting all of their needs in the draft, albeit later in some cases than expected. Safety was probably the second biggest need behind wide receiver. Both needs were addressed, and the Colts like both players they got to help with those needs.

Willis will come in and get some playing time early, and will definitely play on special teams early. He is a solid tackler and can play well in big games. It’s a great value pick at this point in the draft. To get a potential starter in the fourth round is really good value.