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Nick Cross could be an elite defender for the Colts as a rookie

By Jaleel Grandberry

ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 13: Tommy Sweeney #89 of the Buffalo Bills tries to make a catch as Nick Cross #20 of the Indianapolis Colts defends during the first half of a preseason game at Highmark Stadium on August 13, 2022 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 13: Tommy Sweeney #89 of the Buffalo Bills tries to make a catch as Nick Cross #20 of the Indianapolis Colts defends during the first half of a preseason game at Highmark Stadium on August 13, 2022 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /
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Rookie safety, Nick Cross, is looking like he will be a promising defender for the Indianapolis Colts and one of the best rookies in the NFL.

In the first preseason game for the Indianapolis Colts, one of the players that jumped off the screen was rookie safety Nick Cross. After being drafted in the third round, Cross is currently the starting strong safety for Indianapolis and it didn’t take him long to establish himself as a playmaker for the Colts.

On the second play of training camp, Cross recorded a diving interception. Since that day, Nick Cross has made many more plays and the world finally got to get a good look at that in the team’s preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

In that game, Cross only recorded three tackles, in limited snaps, but he was flashing his ability beyond the stat sheet. Whether it was coming downhill to shed blocks and fill gaps, or taking away pass catchers coming across the middle of the field, Cross made his presence felt on the defense.

Now, he’s being recognized throughout the NFL. In a recent article by Lance Zierlein, looking at one pivotal rookie for each NFL team, Zierlein highlighted Nick Cross and talked about how impactful he could be in year one.

Nick Cross should have immediate impact for Colts

After selecting Alec Pierce, Jelani Woods, and Bernhard Raimann all on Day 2 of the Draft, Indy trading back into the third round to get Nick Cross seemed like a luxury pick. However, it turned out to be a necessary move and he could be the most impactful rookie in his class.

The Colts lost starting safety, Khari Willis, to retirement, and Cross immediately filled his shoes. Not only was his availability timely, but he’s actually been balling. From practices to preseason games, all reports have been good and everyone’s excited to see how Cross shines when the lights are the brightest in the regular season.

With a loaded defense, Nick Cross doesn’t necessarily have to be special to help his team but he does have the talent to be special. If he can put it all together in year one, the Colts’ defense will be a scary unit.

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