Don’t assume the Colts are done addressing defensive tackle

After the signing of Sheldon Day, one might think the Colts are done addressing the position, but there’s no guarantee.

The Indianapolis Colts continued their rebuild on the defensive line, and oddly enough, they headed back to the well on defenders who played for the 49ers last season, signing Sheldon Day to a one year deal.

Adding Day, along with the trade for DeForest Buckner, and one would assume the Colts are finished addressing the defensive tackle position. Throw in last year’s group of Denico Autry, Tyquan Lewis, and Grover Stewart, and there’s likely to be a competition to start alongside Buckner in the season opener.

So, with all the moves general manager Chris Ballard has made to reinforce the defensive line, it would make sense to assume that he’s done there and will focus elsewhere in the 2020 NFL Draft. Corner and wide receiver are much more pressing needs, and it would be good for Indianapolis to find another tight end to pair with Jack Doyle. However, I’d caution to assume anything when it comes to Ballard.

Ballard’s often discussed how the trenches are where he likes to focus. The common saying for the offseason is that you sign free agents for need, and draft for value. The draft is often a need/value mix for most GMs, but Ballard likes to stick with his board and draft the best player on the board.

Nothing should surprise Indianapolis Colts fans in the upcoming draft. They could still move up for a quarterback, since they’ll have none under contract past 2020. Remember the trenches as well, as Ballard loves to build from the inside out. Tackle and guard will both be on the table, and could be selected earlier than many think. The same goes for defensive tackle.

If value presents itself, especially in the middle rounds, Ballard could pounce. If he wants someone who can eat up space, guys like Davon Hamilton and Leki Fotu make a ton of sense. Three technique could also be the move, so Jordan Elliott could be the pick. Don’t rule out the later rounds either if Ballard has someone in mind.

Could defensive tackle not come up again this offseason? Certainly. But, just keep this in your back pocket on draft day, Colts fans.