It's no understatement to say that the Indianapolis Colts have a laundry list of needs to address in the 2025 NFL Draft; the most pressing, however, are widely seen to be on defense and at tight end. Tyler Warren is predicted to be the #1 prospect for the Colts to target in the first round, though there are some other notable defenders they might choose to pursue as well.
However, a shocking report from NFL analyst Ryan Fowler suggests they might be going in a completely different direction altogether.
This week, college players will participate in the NFL Combine, where scouts, coaches, and general managers will assess their skills and abilities to determine who might be the best fit for their team. And evidently, the Colts are one of several teams formally asking to meet with... running back Ashton Jeanty?
The following teams have formal meetings scheduled with Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, per source:
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 25, 2025
• Giants
• Broncos
• Vikings
• Steelers
• Colts
• Bears
• Chargers
• Ravens
• Saints
There's no denying that Jeanty is a great running back; he will likely get snapped up in the first round. He has shown tremendous potential in college, and has been particularly praised for his ability to break tackles and continue gaining yards even after contact.
Yet taking a running back in the first round would be a surprising decision for the Colts, considering Jonathan Taylor - the starting running back for Indianapolis - is one of the best running backs in the NFL. Yes, the Colts need more depth at this position; Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson haven't been cutting it, and Taylor needs help. But taking a running back in the first round would be a baffling decision for the Colts, as running back is far from their top position to address. It would make much more sense to sign a free agent to provide that depth, rather than wasting their first round pick on something that just isn't their highest priority.