3 Best defensive back options for Colts in 2024 NFL Draft
Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa
2023 stats: 10 games, 20 receptions (46 targets), 2 INTs, 37.8 Passer RTG
DeJean is the best secondary prospect in this year's draft, and it's not particularly close. As a corner, he lined up almost exclusively outside in 2023 – 630 of his 705 defensive snaps came there. At 6'1 and almost 210 lbs, he's got ton of size for his position, which NFL teams always love. His pro day results went about as viral as combine results can go, and for a good reason. In a way, it's almost worrying how he's talked about as a sure thing.
It's easy to understand why, though. Scouts love his athleticism, footwork, and speak highly of his football IQ. He's also a stellar run defender, which never hurts. He'll also slot in immediately for the Colts on special teams, where he was a dynamic returner for the Hawkeyes during his time at Iowa.
Even though they were both rookies, neither Jaylon Jones or JuJu Brents had the type of season that would prevent DeJean from taking their spot across from Moore. And if the Colts view DeJean more as a safety, there are plenty of opportunities for playing time there, too. Indy needs help wherever they can get it, and DeJean can play anywhere. The fit makes almost too much sense.