Ranking Colts second round draft picks in the Chris Ballard era
2. Jonathan Taylor, RB, 2020, No. 41 overall
The spot for No. 1 was undoubtedly between Jonathan Taylor and Darius Leonard. Taylor comes in at No. 2 after playing just two seasons in the NFL.
In that time, Taylor has run for 2,980 yards and 18 touchdowns. He has also caught 40 passes for 360 yards and two more touchdowns.
Additionally, Taylor has led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, set numerous franchise records, and been selected to the Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro.
He has been the engine of the Colts’ offense and Indianapolis is lucky he fell to them in the second round.
Number 28 is a lot of fun to watch. pic.twitter.com/lGGUOp8V3m
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) January 20, 2022
1. Darius Leonard, LB, 2018, No. 36 overall
Darius Leonard’s four seasons in the NFL have been just as special as Taylor’s two. In 2018, he won Defensive Rookie of the Year and led the league in tackles.
He has been selected to four All-Pro teams and three Pro Bowls, showing he’s been one of the league’s best linebackers every season he’s been in the NFL.
In his career, he already has 538 tackles, 30 for a loss, 15 sacks, 11 interceptions, and 17 forced fumbles. Leonard has become the Turnover King in the NFL and it’s a habit that’s influenced the entire Indianapolis defense.
That’s also why Leonard has the top spot on this list over Taylor. Because he’s been established as the leader for this young Colts team.
Leonard has an infectious energy and mentality that motivates the entire team. In most Indianapolis games, it’s easy to see that the Colts go as Leonard goes.
On top of being an elite player, Leonard is an elite leader as well and that makes him the best second-round draft pick of the Chris Ballard era.
