Are Colts trying to acquire second first-round pick based on pre-draft meeting?
By Mike Luciano
The Indianapolis Colts are very clearly in the market for a young quarterback, as the three-headed monster of Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, and Anthony Richardson will likely send one of those prized prospects to Indy. Chris Ballard has the No. 4 pick, but has been mentioned as someone who could move up to the No. 1 selection in a deal with the Chicago Bears.
If a trade doesn't come to fruition, the Colts may need to consider moving up to nab a second first-round selection. With Ballard on thin ice after two straight seasons without a playoff appearance, he might need to swing for the fences.
Beyond quarterback, Indianapolis' two biggest needs may both be on the defensive side of the ball. Indy could eye a long-term outside corner alongside Stephon Gilmore and slot standout Kenny Moore II, while the lack of edge rushing depth must also be addressed. Ballard may have his eyes set on one standout DB from a blue-blood team.
The Colts are reported to have met with Georgia cornerback Kelee Ringo, who is considered by nearly every mock drafter and scouting service to be a first-round pick. Even in a very top-heavy cornerback class, Indy meeting with Ringo could be a sign that they are plotting yet another move up in the order.
Will the Indianapolis Colts draft Kelee Ringo?
Ringo was regarded as arguably the best defensive back in his recruiting class, and he made good on all that hype by picking off four passes in two seasons as a starter with the Bulldogs. Ringo's speed will be his best attribute, as he has reportedly been clocked going as fast as 23 miles per hour.
A 6-foot-2 corner who has played his best against the premier competition, Ringo has the size needed to swallow up receivers at the line of scrimmage. In a Gus Bradley defense that will once again use a ton of zone, Ringo's range will be valued.
Ringo's flaws stem from some inconsistent technique, as his poor footwork and general aggression led to him getting called for nine penalties last season. His very poor performance in the College Football Playoff against Ohio State will be remembered by executives, even with a solid combine showing.
Bradley comes form Pete Carroll's Seattle system that has typically prioritized height and length from their corners. If he gets his way, Ringo might be wearing a horseshoe on his helmet next season.