Full Colts midseason rookie report card: Grading how 2023 draft picks have performed
Round 5, Pick 162: Will Mallory (TE)
Preseason expectations for Will Mallory were subdued since he was joining a crowded tight end group. Kylen Granson, Drew Ogletree, Mo Alie-Cox, and Jelani Woods were all returning to the team and ahead of Mallory in the pecking order. While Woods has yet to see the field due to injury, Mallory has still only been targeted eight times all year.
Even in limited action, Mallory did show his speed and route-running ability early on when he completed a 43-yard catch and run in Week 2. However, with only 62 total receiving yards this year, he hasn't been able to build on that play. Despite his lack of involvement, it's hard to grade Mallory too harshly. The Colts have several talented pass-catching tight ends and the fifth-rounder doesn’t offer a ton as a blocker, both of which limit how often he can be on the field.
Grade: C
Round 5, Pick 176: Evan Hull (RB)
General manager Chris Ballard returned to the Northwestern talent pool in Round 5, this time selecting the school's leading rusher in 2021 and 2022. Indianapolis hoped Evan Hull could be a compact runner, capable pass-catcher, and solid special teams asset in the mold of former Colt Nyheim Hines. However, we never got a chance to see if Hull could be a productive member of the backfield as he suffered a season-ending knee injury in the first game of the season.
In total, Hull played just eight snaps this year, including one reception and one carry. It's unclear what Hull’s role will be on the team next season but as Zack Moss hits free agency next summer, Hull may have an opportunity to fight for playing time.