Ranking Colts second round draft picks in the Chris Ballard era

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard (53) works to pump up the crowd Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, during a game against the New England Patriots at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard (53) works to pump up the crowd Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, during a game against the New England Patriots at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
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Colts, Michael Pittman
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman catches a touchdown pass against the New York Jets. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

5. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, 2019, No. 34 overall

Rock Ya-Sin was Indy’s first pick in 2019 and he proved to be a good one. The corner was a day-one starter for the Colts and showcased talent early in his rookie season.

He had some growing pains early in his career but by his third year, he showed that he was well on his way to being a lockdown corner. He had a phenomenal season in 2021 for the Colts.

However, Indianapolis traded Ya-Sin to the Las Vegas Raiders to acquire Yannick Ngakoue. It was a good trade for the Colts but it was also tough to lose a young talent like Ya-Sin.

4. Braden Smith, G, 2018, No. 37 overall

Braden Smith was selected in 2018, one spot after Darius Leonard and in the same Draft class as Quenton Nelson. In other words, he’s often been overshadowed during his time with the Colts.

However, Smith has started at right tackle since his rookie season for Indianapolis and he has been really good. He, along with Nelson and Ryan Kelly, are three stable pillars on Indy’s offensive line.

3. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, 2020, No. 34 overall

Michael Pittman Jr. was Indy’s first selection in the 2020 Draft and it was a pick that is greatly paying off for the Colts currently. Pittman is a lifeline in a struggling Indianapolis receiver room.

Last season, Pittman had a breakout year catching 88 passes for 1,082 yards, establishing himself as the Colts’ No. 1 receiver. As he will continue to get better, Indianapolis will hopefully find him a running mate in this year’s Draft.

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