The Indianapolis Colts signed 15 undrafted free agents after the 2023 NFL Draft. Which of these undrafted rookies have the best chance to make the team?
After an underwhelming 4-12-1 season in 2022, the Indianapolis Colts entered the offseason with a ton of holes that needed to be addressed. Indy did a lot of its addressing during draft weekend. The Colts drafted 12 players and then followed that up by signing 15 undrafted free agents, giving themselves a great chance to find some young talent.
Of course, not all 27 of these players will make the roster. In fact, some were already cut following rookie minicamp. However, in addition to the majority of the rookies that were drafted by Indianapolis, there’s a good chance that at least one undrafted rookie makes the 53-man roster.
Looking at the list of the undrafted rookies, along with Indy’s veterans that are in good standing, the Colts probably won’t be keeping many of these undrafted players. However, there is at least one that has a pretty strong chance of being on the regular season roster. That is guard Emil Ekiyor Jr.
We have signed 15 undrafted free agents. pic.twitter.com/3vvC5thFGA
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 5, 2023
Emil Ekiyor Jr. should make the Colts roster
Ekiyor was expected to be drafted, possibly on day two. However, an injury concern led to him falling out of the draft completely, but he immediately signed with his hometown team. In addition to Ekiyor being from Indianapolis, he’s a perfect football fit for the Colts.
Indianapolis’ offensive line really struggled last season, and right guard was a position that needed addressing. However, Indy didn’t sign any veteran guards or draft any guards, so Emil Ekiyor Jr. was essentially signed as the possible solution. Now, Ekiyor will have to prove that he is.
After five years at Alabama, Ekiyor has a ton of high-level collegiate experience. If he’s healthy, that should help him transition to the NFL and do enough to make Indy’s roster. There isn’t that much quality depth at guard for the Colts, especially right guard. So if Ekiyor can impress, he should make the roster, and may even have the chance to start.