The Indianapolis Colts draft could go in one of many different directions, as the No. 21 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft could be used to address one of several different needs.
While wide receiver and defensive back are still a huge need for Indianapolis, drafting an offensive tackle like Virginia Tech’s Christian Darrisaw or Texas’ Samuel Cosmi could be a very prudent strategy.
The retirement of Anthony Castonzo has left the Colts with a hole at left tackle, and their reluctance to spend big money at that position has led to some truly hair-brained ideas.
Yes, including moving left guard Quenton Nelson or right tackle Braden Smith over to that side.
While drafting a wideout like Minnesota’s Rashod Bateman might be a flashier move, Indianapolis has built this team from the ball out, and Jim Irsay remains committed to building the offensive line.
Irsay’s latest comments claimed that finding a left tackle in the draft would be “ideal”, citing the success Indianapolis has had with Castonzo and Tarik Glenn over the last few decades as justification.
Asked about the need at left tackle, owner Jim Irsay says addressing in the draft would "ideal."
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) March 18, 2021
"We've seen that with Tarik Glenn and Anthony Castonzo."
If Irsay wants to build through the draft, Cosmi looks like a perfect fit, as he could be a potential starter for the next decade.
Samuel Cosmi could be in the Indianapolis Colts draft plan
The Colts have a fetishistic approach to the concept of versatility, and Cosmi checks those boxes considering he has started for two seasons at right tackle and one season at left tackle. No matter where he lined up, he proved that he was the best offensive lineman in the Big 12 over the last few seasons.
Cosmi is a premium athlete, as evidenced by the fact Texas often left him out on an island and tasked him with getting to the second level as a run blocker. Not only did he excel in those roles, but he might be the best pure athlete in the draft at this position with the exception of Oregon stud Penei Sewell.
Cosmi should be able to hop right into the starting lineup, even though he has had some issues with using his power and anchoring in pass pro. If he puts some meat on his bones, he’s should overcome that issue.
Wide receiver is extremely deep this year, but the tackle talent will fall off in a major way after Day 1. Indy shouldn’t waste this opportunity, as Cosmi is everything that Indianapolis needs out of a first-round pick and left tackle. Start doing the jersey swaps!