Colts 7-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Finding receivers early and late

Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver George Pickens (1) makes a diving catch while being guarded by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry (1) on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, during the College Football Playoff National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver George Pickens (1) makes a diving catch while being guarded by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry (1) on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, during the College Football Playoff National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
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Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver George Pickens (1) makes a diving catch while being guarded by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry (1) on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, during the College Football Playoff National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver George Pickens (1) makes a diving catch while being guarded by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry (1) on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, during the College Football Playoff National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Colts target wide receiver first

The Colts strike for gold right off the bat in the second round by selecting one of the more athletic wide receivers in the draft.

George Pickens missed all but a few of the final games in 2021 after tearing his ACL in the spring. Pickens came back and played in the National Championship game against Alabama where he made some incredible diving catches.

Run-blocking is going to be his major weakness since he has a slimmer frame and can get outmuscled by a stronger secondary that is defending the run. Luckily, for the Colts, Jonathan Taylor runs up the middle a lot.

George’s strong suit is downfield and catching the ball. His athleticism, agility, and catch radius make up for the lack of run support he provides. This would be a very Colts-like move to make in the second round. Pairing Pickens with Michael Pittman, Jr. would make an immediate impact on the Colts’ offense.

In a draft full of wide receiver talent, the Colts could ideally swing a bat and find a talented receiver, but Pickens would be a great day-two draft pick.

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