Colts 2020 Mock Draft 6.0: Simulating a Chris Ballard trade back

In this Indianapolis Colts mock draft, we simulate a trade back scenario, something Chris Ballard is likely to consider on draft day.

It’s now under a month until the 2020 NFL Draft, and the Indianapolis Colts are preparing for what will be the strangest draft in recent memory. With the coronavirus forcing most pro days to be canceled, it will be a tricky year of evaluation, which is why many general managers wanted to push the draft back. At this point, the draft is still on.

Chris Ballard made a huge move trading the 13th overall pick for star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, a move that greatly improves the defense. While the move does take them out of range of getting a top quarterback, the Colts still have two second round picks. However, with only seven picks in this draft, don’t be surprised if Ballard opts to move down from the 34th or 44th spot.

In this mock draft, we will highlight two trade-downs that Ballard could make to acquire more picks on day two. Let’s take a quick look at both.

The first trade is with the Baltimore Ravens. Here, Indianapolis moves back from the 44th pick, acquiring both the 60th and 92nd picks in the process. While it’s a significant move down the board, it gives the Colts more ammo.

The next trade involves the New England Patriots. This time, Indy moves back from the 75th pick, and receives the 87th and 98th picks in the draft. It did require sending an additional third round pick in 2021, but once again, it gives the Colts a plethora of picks on day two, allowing them to address their needs and add good talent to the roster.

Let’s take a look at who the Indianapolis Colts select in this 2020 mock draft. Note: This mock was completed using Pro Football Network’s mock draft simulator.