The Colts decided to go very heavy on defense during this whole draft process. How does their first pick, Rock Ya-Sin, fit in?
Thursday night was a very anti-climactic one for Colts fans. They waited all night to see who they would take with their first round pick, only to find out that they traded out of that slot for another second rounder. They had to wait until Friday for the Colts’ first selection.
But the wait was worth it. Instead of addressing needs at receiver and safety, the Colts made the decision to take cornerback Rock Ya-Sin out of Temple. Corner was an area of need, as they need someone who can play well alongside Kenny Moore and Pierre Desir.
Ya-Sin is that man. He is very physical and can play press coverage very well, which works well for this defense. But his zone coverage skills were what impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl. He can turn his hips to get up field well and plays his areas smartly.
Because Quincy Wilson has been somewhat unreliable in his time in Indianapolis, Chris Ballard clearly felt it was necessary to find someone to relieve him of his duties. Ya-Sin is good enough to do that day one, but he will have to work hard at it.
One thing the Colts don’t question about Ya-Sin is his work ethic. After transferring to Temple to play his one year there, he worked as hard as anyone on that roster. He was well liked among his teammates and respected by every one of his coaches.
Expect Ya-Sin to get a lot of playing time early in the year. He should be a valuable piece of the Colts’ secondary for years to come.