Could the Colts select all offensive players in the NFL Draft?
The Indianapolis Colts should be in an offensive state of mind for the NFL Draft after several defensive acquisitions.
Throughout the offseason, Chris Ballard, general manager for the Indianapolis Colts, was receiving a lot of criticism. Fans and media weren’t satisfied with his patient approach despite having a lot of cap space.
Now, with the NFL Draft near, Ballard is being applauded for the several acquisitions he has made to upgrade the Colts. The three moves that will highlight the offseason will be the trades for Matt Ryan and Yannick Ngakoue, as well as the Stephon Gilmore signing.
There have also been other moves that should prove to be important and they have a theme. Outside of Ryan, all of the external additions have been on the defensive side of the ball.
Colts F.A. adds:
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) April 15, 2022
Trade for QB Matt Ryan
Trade for DE Yannick Ngakoue
Re-sign TE Mo Alie-Cox
Re-sign LB Zaire Franklin
Re-sign DE Tyquan Lewis
Re-sign OT Matt Pryor
Signed CB Brandon Facyson
Sign S Rodney McLeod
Sign S Armani Watts
Sign LB Brandon King
Sign CB Stephon Gilmore
This shows that Indianapolis put an emphasis on building up the defensive side of the ball in free agency. Now, with the draft approaching, and room for improvement on offense, Indy will likely put an emphasis on elevating the offense in the Draft.
Offense should be top priority for Colts in Draft
While there is a lot of excitement surrounding Indianapolis heading into next season, there are still quite a few concerns on the offensive side of the ball.
No concern is bigger than Indy’s receiving unit. After Michael Pittman Jr., there are a lot of guys that still have to prove themselves. Sticking with pass-catchers, tight end is also a position that needs to be developed for the Colts.
Additionally, although Chris Ballard said Matt Pryor will get the first shot at left tackle, there are still depth issues along the offensive line.
With the need for a receiver, tight end, and tackle, Indianapolis may not make a defensive selection until late into the Draft. Well, Indy shouldn’t select any defenders early but there’s no telling what will happen.
The Colts currently have seven total picks in the Draft, and with the current roster, at least the first three should be offense. It’s likely Indianapolis eventually makes some selections to build more depth in the secondary and Ballard loves drafting defensive linemen, so don’t rule that out either.
However, this should be an offensive draft for the Colts. Expect Indy to select offensive players early and often and they may even double-dip at wide receiver.
