The Indianapolis Colts have been searching for elite pass rushers for several years. In every draft, general manager Chris Ballard takes at least one or two defensive linemen. The reason why is that he believes a deep pass rushing group is one of the keys to victory in the NFL. Despite the attempts, the Colts don’t have an elite pass rush yet.
Indianapolis does have some promising young guys like Kwity Paye, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Samson Ebukam, who the team believes can be productive pass rushers, especially Paye. But, for now, the Colts are without a top tier pass rusher.
ESPN’s Matt Miller believes that could change in next year’s draft. In a recent 2024 Mock Draft, Indy is predicted to be picking at No. 4 again. Instead of going offense, Miller believes Indianapolis will take the first defender off the board, drafting Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner.
Colts select Dallas Turner in recent 2024 mock draft
Miller admits that Indy, if picking that high, could decide to go with an offensive tackle or trade with a team that’s looking for a quarterback. However, Miller ultimately decided that the Colts would use the opportunity to improve the pass rush.
Dallas Turner, who’s entering his junior season at Alabama, spent his first two seasons in Will Anderson Jr.’s shadow, the 2023 Draft’s No. 3 pick. However, anyone that’s been paying attention would know that Turner has been making plays since his freshman year with the Tide.
Miller points out that at 6-foot-4, 242 pounds, some scouts believe Turner will be an even better prospect than Anderson. Miller quoted an area scout who said, “Turner has better length, he’s taller, and he’ll fill out his frame better.” It’s natural in sports to say that the next best thing is better than the last, but whether that’s true or not in this situation, Turner is certainly good, and the Colts could use him.