Regrading Indianapolis Colts’ 2021 draft picks through Week 10

The Indianapolis Colts 2021 draft class is10 games into their rookie season. Let’s evaluate how they’re doing so far.

Back in the spring, the Indianapolis Colts drafted seven players that left many fans feeling underwhelmed. Everyone was thrilled with the Colts’ first selection Kwity Paye, but after that, there were no home run picks that drove excitement in Indianapolis.

Luckily, it’s not the initial reception that matters, but what the players do for the franchise in the years following. This class has only been a part of the organization for 10 real games, so they’re barely scratching the surface… but that won’t stop us from evaluating.

Just past the halfway mark of the season, none of the rookies have jumped off the screen, as the Colts have played to a 5-5 record, but they have had their moments. Each player has faced their own individual challenges as they adjust to the professional game, but they seem to be trending in the right direction.

Lets take a look at how each of the seven selections are doing 10 games into their rookie season:

1. Colts DE Kwity Paye

Paye was selected in the first round (No. 21 overall) and sparked a lot of excitement in Indianapolis  for his ability to get after the quarterback. That was something the Colts needed, and they were able to land a player who was projected to go higher, so it was all around viewed as a great selection.

Paye was able to earn a starting defensive end spot and become an immediate contributor on the Indianapolis defense. Aside from the two games he missed with a hamstring injury, Paye has started every game. In his eight appearances, he has 17 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, five quarterback hits and two fumble recoveries.

Not the most dominant start, but he is a rookie, and is gradually improving each week. His lone sack came in his latest game against the Jaguars, probably his best game rushing the passer. He finished with the sack, three quarterback hits and was given the best grade of any rookie defender for the season, according to PFF.

Its safe to say that, so far, Paye was a pretty good first pick. He’s been a reliable starter, and continues to get better as he gets more comfortable in the NFL.

GRADE: B+ (and rising)