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

The release of Pierre Desir puts corner up higher on the list of needs for the Indianapolis Colts, especially after getting shredded in the last few games of the 2019 season. Kenny Moore will of course be a starter, and it’s likely Rock Ya-Sin will get that opportunity. However, bringing in someone from this draft class would be a good idea.

Jeff Gladney would be a home run selection at this point in the draft. Gladney has great footwork and quickness near the line of scrimmage. He brings great mirroring ability in man coverage and is a headache at the catch point for receivers (his 26 passes defensed in his last two seasons show that). Gladney has instant starter written all over and could end up being a steal at this spot.

The trade back with Baltimore picks up a third rounder, and with the depth at receiver in this class, the opportunity is there to get an impact player to add to the group of T.Y. Hilton, Parris Campbell, and Zach Pascal.

Brandon Aiyuk is the type of player to fit well into Frank Reich’s offense. Aiyuk has a tremendous catch radius for his size, and should be comfortable in contested spots. He is a nuanced route runner in vertical stems, but he can also separate with quickness horizontally. Aiyuk is also dangerous after the catch and can be a home run threat with the ball in his hands.