Colts 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft 3.0: Chris Ballard gets uncharacteristic

The Indianapolis Colts draft TE Zack Kuntz in the seventh round (223rd overall)

In this hypothetical, Chris Ballard has traded or cut longtime Colt, Mo Alie-Cox, thus leaving room for a potential fourth tight end on the 53-man roster, if Shane Steichen's sceme were to warrant that.

Tight End Zack Kuntz is a 6-foot-8, 250-pound transfer from Penn State and blossomed at Old Dominion in his first season as a Monarch. He caught 73 receptions and five touchdowns while amassing nearly 700 yards receiving.

Unfortunately, Kuntz' 2022 campagin was forced to a halt after sustaining a season-ending injury. Kuntz, however, is set to perform at the combine this Saturday and will look to impress with his athletic prowess as he, like Vorhees, is a part of Bruce Feldman's College Football Freaks List.

The Indianapolis Colts draft S Trey Dean III in the seventh round (238th overall)

This mock draft has concluded the same way it began, by drafting a Florida Gator prospect. Trey Dean III was a five-year contributor at Florida, starting games in every year, and at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, he moves exceptionally well. He's a better-than-average blitzer with top-notch closing speed.

Dean III's certainly a box safety but he could really benefit from sitting behind veteran Rodney McLeod Jr., given he returns to Indianapolis on a new contract. He's a bit handsy in the pass game but possess the athletic traits to learn in that area.

Trey Dean III's aggressiveness in the pass game hurts him but his athleticism gives him versatility. In this past season, he logged 100+ snaps at three separate positions (Box S, LB, SLCB). Dean III could provide immediate depth at the strong safety position while also being able to insert himself as a force in the special teams department.

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