Who do you want at 15?

[Dam8610]

Pretty straightforward.

[Dam8610]

I think trading down will net the Colts a top 5 WR in the class that fits the mold of what the team tries to draft at WR as well as potentially netting another top 50ish pick, which would potentially net the team another quality starter.

[apballin]

Trade back and take Xavier Worthy

Another explosive home run threat paired with AR and JT

Makes ARs job easier because he opens things up strictly out of fear

While Mitchell would be tough to pass at 15 for what Worthy would provide to the offense and AR I’d be willing to trade back and go CB later.

Colts fans will have ptsd if they do this… but he’s not Paris Campbell or Phillip Dorsett he’s more like Desean Jackson

[ukcolt]

Quinyon Mitchell, the best CB in the draft, but i am not sure that he will be there for the Colts at 15. I would also sign Patrick Peterson to sure up the CB position. He can also play safety, providing the depth at both positions. Can also be a big teacher to the young guys.

If Mitchell isn't there, then i would go WR Bryan Thomas, a legit deep threat, with good hands. The WR class is deep and a decent player can be had in the 2nd round, which is not true of the CB class. Big drop off after the top 2 or 3 guys.

I am also not as down on what we already have on the roster at CB. Brents, Flowers and Moore are a capable set of cornerbacks, but besides Moore are very inexperienced and both Flowers and Brents struggled with injuries last year. Jaylon Jones and Baker are decent players for the back end of the roster.

If you had Mitchell, Brents, Moore, Flowers, Peterson that to me is an outstanding group of CB's. Allows Flowers to recover from his injury completely, Mitchell and Brents can compete and develop, the fallback option if either struggle is Peterson, who intially i would be looking at playing safety.

[Chromeburn]

Brock Bowers.

[Racehorse]

Brock Bowers.

Would be nice, if he falls to 15. However, I doubt he does.

[Racehorse]

I think trading down will net the Colts a top 5 WR in the class that fits the mold of what the team tries to draft at WR as well as potentially netting another top 50ish pick, which would potentially net the team another quality starter.

I would be okay with a trade down, but a lot of heads would explode if we do. Ballard has been effective with a trade down and picking up draft capital to select a player or to use to trade back up to get a guy he likes.

[apballin]

I would be okay with a trade down, but a lot of heads would explode if we do. Ballard has been effective with a trade down and picking up draft capital to select a player or to use to trade back up to get a guy he likes.

I think it depends on who’s there, the only player they wouldn’t trade out of 15 is Bowers I believe.

[apballin]

Quinyon Mitchell, the best CB in the draft, but i am not sure that he will be there for the Colts at 15. I would also sign Patrick Peterson to sure up the CB position. He can also play safety, providing the depth at both positions. Can also be a big teacher to the young guys.

If Mitchell isn't there, then i would go WR Bryan Thomas, a legit deep threat, with good hands. The WR class is deep and a decent player can be had in the 2nd round, which is not true of the CB class. Big drop off after the top 2 or 3 guys.

I am also not as down on what we already have on the roster at CB. Brents, Flowers and Moore are a capable set of cornerbacks, but besides Moore are very inexperienced and both Flowers and Brents struggled with injuries last year. Jaylon Jones and Baker are decent players for the back end of the roster.

If you had Mitchell, Brents, Moore, Flowers, Peterson that to me is an outstanding group of CB's. Allows Flowers to recover from his injury completely, Mitchell and Brents can compete and develop, the fallback option if either struggle is Peterson, who intially i would be looking at playing safety.

I agree the WR class is good, so trading back for more picks and still getting a quality WR is the play to me.

I wouldn’t be mad at any weapon for AR but what’s the difference between WRs from outside the top 3 let’s say from 4-11 they seem pretty interchangeable outside of Worthy he seems like the most rare ability wise that’s gonna be available

[Chromeburn]

Would be nice, if he falls to 15. However, I doubt he does.

It’s not that far fetched considering he still hasn’t worked out for teams, he is below the average size metrics for the position, and teams have been burned on drafting TEs high the last decade.

[omahacolt]

picked turner


would be fine with btj

[YDFL Commish]

If Arnold, Mitchell and Bowers are all gone...then yes trade down.

[Mr. Session]

If there is any, I mean any legitimate opportunity to do so - trade up for Harrison Jr.

I don’t give a fuck.

[ukcolt]

I am not keen on either of the Alabama corners as outside guys. Probably ok for the slot, but they aren't fast enough to play outside.

A corner possibly with our 2nd round selection who i really like is Max Melton from Rutgers, if Mitchell isn't available at pick 15 and we take a WR instead.

If Dallas Turner was available, you run to the podium with your card, as he is the best player in this draft not named Caleb Williams. Just don't see anyway that he will still be there at pick 15. Same with Bowers, if he is somehow still there, can't see anyway you don't take him. In my mind there are 3 generational type talents in this draft, Williams, Turner and Bowers, with Quinyon Mitchell close behind.

[ukcolt]

I am not convinced Harrison Jr is going to be as good as his dad in the NFL, which is obviously saying a lot. He is likely going to be a great player, but i think that Malik Nabers is the best WR in this class. Nabers, Harrison, Thomas, and Odunze are all going to be very good true No. 1 guys.

[njcoltfan]

If Verse or Latu are available at 15 you have to pull the trigger and get one of the best pass rushers in this years draft !!!

[Dam8610]

If there is any, I mean any legitimate opportunity to do so - trade up for Harrison Jr.

I don’t give a fuck.

Would you give up next year's 1 for him? Because I'm fairly certain that's what it would take.

[Racehorse]

Would you give up next year's 1 for him? Because I'm fairly certain that's what it would take.

I would pass

[Chromeburn]

How I think they will go, pass catcher and corner in the top two rounds.
1. Bowers > Mitchell/BTj > slight trade down for Worthy
2. If pass catcher in 1; Max melton/TJ Tampa
If CB in 1; Malachi Corley

[Mr. Session]

Would you give up next year's 1 for him? Because I'm fairly certain that's what it would take.

Yes

TBF, I am not being entirely logical.

But for argument's sake, Atlanta traded up for Julio Jones and it proved to be worth the expense.

[sherck]

I picked trade down because that just fits Ballard's MO.

If the WR class is as deep as everyone is saying, then a trade down to the mid 20s should receive as compesation a pick something like:

IND trades #15 (1050 points) for

GB #25 (720 points) and GB 2nd round #58 (320 points) and GB 5th round #169 (23.8 points)

1050 versus 1063.8 because the trades always slightly favor the team trading down.

Getting that extra top 60-70 player is pretty big when Ballard always preaches that the more swings you take at the plate, the more hits you get.

[IndyNorm]

If Bowers is there then I definitely want us to take him. If he's gone then BT or Mitchell or BTJr. Although I'm sure trading down is the most likely.

How I think they will go, pass catcher and corner in the top two rounds.
1. Bowers > Mitchell/BTj > slight trade down for Worthy
2. If pass catcher in 1; Max melton/TJ Tampa
If CB in 1; Malachi Corley

Has Worthy shown he can do more other than go deep? Would hate to see us spend a 1st rounder on a smaller, fast version of Pierce.

[HoosierinFL]

Would you give up next year's 1 for him? Because I'm fairly certain that's what it would take.

Not in a million years. Indiana sports fans are too sentimental, lots of people are losing their minds that Ballard is not making a move to get Harrison Jr.

These same people insisted we had to have a Knight descendant coaching at IU. They wanted Alford for years but that dude clearly sucks. They wanted Woodson, and he's done nothing to show he's any better than anyone hired post-Knight.

These same people will be losing their minds over us not drafting Arch Manning in a few years.

[Chromeburn]

Yes

TBF, I am not being entirely logical.

But for argument's sake, Atlanta traded up for Julio Jones and it proved to be worth the expense.

Holy crap did the Browns botch that trade. Man it must suck to be one of their fans.

The Falcons gave up their first-round pick that year along with their second and fourth-round picks in 2011. They gave up their first and fourth-round picks in the 2012 draft as well. With those picks, the Browns selected defensive lineman Phil Taylor, fullback Owen Marecic, and quarterback Brandon Weeden. They packaged on of the picks in 2012 to trade up for Trent Richardson.

[Chromeburn]

If Bowers is there then I definitely want us to take him. If he's gone then BT or Mitchell or BTJr. Although I'm sure trading down is the most likely.



Has Worthy shown he can do more other than go deep? Would hate to see us spend a 1st rounder on a smaller, fast version of Pierce.

Yeah Worthy is quite capable. He’s been their #1 receiver since he’s been there and had nearly 1000 yards as a freshman. Freshman production of that kind is a good indicator of future success. Does a good job of hiding his routes and intentions. He attacks the ball in the air using his hands. His speed gives teams fits they are so afraid of it. He gets large cushions that he takes advantage of on come backs, deep curls, digs, outs and slants. He also clears out whole areas as a distraction bc safeties freak out when he is in their area, freeing things underneath for other receivers. But he knows how to use his speed also and can juke guys in short range and goal line situations, also a huge distraction as a potential jet sweep. A couple other things, Ewers is not a good deep ball thrower and he missed him on quite a few would be touchdowns. I know a couple longhorns fans and they told me he would get open a lot but the pass would be short or late allowing the corner to close. Also you may see people talk about him dropping a lot of passes last year, but he had a broken hand which not many know. His catching was much better this year.

He is also a good returner.

But if I’m Steichen I’m looking at potential mismatches and YAC guys. Bowers, Corley, Worthy, BTj, Mitchell. He wants more explosive plays and there are quite a few receivers lost in this draft that have r was on good speed.

[Racehorse]

Holy crap did the Browns botch that trade. Man it must suck to be one of their fans.

And Grigson bailed them out a little.

[Dam8610]

Yeah Worthy is quite capable. He’s been their #1 receiver since he’s been there and had nearly 1000 yards as a freshman. Freshman production of that kind is a good indicator of future success. Does a good job of hiding his routes and intentions. He attacks the ball in the air using his hands. His speed gives teams fits they are so afraid of it. He gets large cushions that he takes advantage of on come backs, deep curls, digs, outs and slants. He also clears out whole areas as a distraction bc safeties freak out when he is in their area, freeing things underneath for other receivers. But he knows how to use his speed also and can juke guys in short range and goal line situations, also a huge distraction as a potential jet sweep.

He is also a good returner.

But if I’m Steichen I’m looking at potential mismatches and YAC guys. Bowers, Corley, Worthy, BTj, Mitchell. He wants more explosive plays and there are quite a few receivers lost in this draft that have r was on good speed.

If the top 5 (MHJ, Nabers, Odunze, BTJ, Mitchell) are gone after a trade down, my next guy would be Legette. Corley is more of a trade down in Round 2 guy IMO.

[nate505]

Arnold, but most decisions here aren't going to bother me. I'm fine if the Colts trade back a bit, or trade up a bit for a guy like Bowers or Nabors or whoever.

Also don't care that much if they draft Mitchell over Arnold. Any good CB would be huge though, and if they stay at #15 I hope they get one of them.

[Chromeburn]

If the top 5 (MHJ, Nabers, Odunze, BTJ, Mitchell) are gone after a trade down, my next guy would be Legette. Corley is more of a trade down in Round 2 guy IMO.

I see Corley and Legette as round two. Corley has a lot to learn as a receiver still. He’s compared to Deebo but Deebo was much more refined as a receiver. But he is a weapon in the open field.legettes lack of production worries me late two imo. I’m not a huge fan of Mitchell, think he should have produced more, and he was hurt the first two years at Georgia. I think Worthy has jumped Mitchell and is top 20 now.

[apballin]

If the top 5 (MHJ, Nabers, Odunze, BTJ, Mitchell) are gone after a trade down, my next guy would be Legette. Corley is more of a trade down in Round 2 guy IMO.

You don’t like Worthy at all?

[Dam8610]

You don’t like Worthy at all?

Hands are questionable, deep speed doesn't show up in games as much as you'd like to see, and his build is very slight. Given a choice between Worthy and Legette, I'd take Legette.

[apballin]

Hands are questionable, deep speed doesn't show up in games as much as you'd like to see, and his build is very slight. Given a choice between Worthy and Legette, I'd take Legette.

Cmon man, Legette is 23 with 12 career TDs

Worthy will be 21 as has been productive all 3 years, he’s not a 1 year wonder trying to cash in.

[omahacolt]

its unfortunate that a heavy offensive draft doesn't really seem to make me excited for a defensive guy to fall. I am sure people are high on the corners but I don't really care much about that position with our shitty pass rush.


or inconsistent pass rush if someone wants to regurgitate how many sacks we got last year.

so bowers or btj seem like the most promising options

[Chromeburn]

its unfortunate that a heavy offensive draft doesn't really seem to make me excited for a defensive guy to fall. I am sure people are high on the corners but I don't really care much about that position with our shitty pass rush.


or inconsistent pass rush if someone wants to regurgitate how many sacks we got last year.

so bowers or btj seem like the most promising options

If Dallas Turner slips they probably take him, and Jared Verse is still a dark horse candidate to me. I’m back and forth on Latu, but his injury history probably rules him out.

In the second I could see them looking at Darius Robinson or Chris Braswell. Just listened to an interview with Braswell and the guy squats 900 lbs. that’s insane.

But what I think will help the rush more than anything is improved secondary play.

[apballin]

They went defensive heavy in free agency, they’ve gotta get Richardson more weapons

[IndyNorm]

And Grigson bailed them out a little.

Actually the Browns ended up making it even worse on themselves by using the pick they got from us to trade up for Johnny Manziel :D:D:D

[IndyNorm]

Yeah Worthy is quite capable. He’s been their #1 receiver since he’s been there and had nearly 1000 yards as a freshman. Freshman production of that kind is a good indicator of future success. Does a good job of hiding his routes and intentions. He attacks the ball in the air using his hands. His speed gives teams fits they are so afraid of it. He gets large cushions that he takes advantage of on come backs, deep curls, digs, outs and slants. He also clears out whole areas as a distraction bc safeties freak out when he is in their area, freeing things underneath for other receivers. But he knows how to use his speed also and can juke guys in short range and goal line situations, also a huge distraction as a potential jet sweep. A couple other things, Ewers is not a good deep ball thrower and he missed him on quite a few would be touchdowns. I know a couple longhorns fans and they told me he would get open a lot but the pass would be short or late allowing the corner to close. Also you may see people talk about him dropping a lot of passes last year, but he had a broken hand which not many know. His catching was much better this year.

He is also a good returner.

But if I’m Steichen I’m looking at potential mismatches and YAC guys. Bowers, Corley, Worthy, BTj, Mitchell. He wants more explosive plays and there are quite a few receivers lost in this draft that have r was on good speed.

Ok, saw that Worthy was somewhat productive so figured he's more than just a 40 time. Agree we need more YAC guys. Hope we draft at least 2-3.

[Chromeburn]

Actually the Browns ended up making it even worse on themselves by using the pick they got from us to trade up for Johnny Manziel :D:D:D

So many wasted high draft picks over the years.

[Dam8610]

Doubling up with Brian Thomas Jr. or Adonai Mitchell and Malachi Corley would be fun, if a bit unrealistic. Another interesting play would be to draft Quinyon Mitchell at 15 then trade up into the early 20s for Adonai Mitchell. If they do end up trading down and getting an extra 2 out of it, Kris Jenkins is another guy I'd want to target. He's strong enough to bulk up and play nose, but athletic enough to become a future 3T as well. Draft day this year will certainly be interesting.

[Dewey 5]

Brian Thomas Jr but my guess is dipshit Ballard will trade way down.

[apballin]

Doubling up with Brian Thomas Jr. or Adonai Mitchell and Malachi Corley would be fun, if a bit unrealistic. Another interesting play would be to draft Quinyon Mitchell at 15 then trade up into the early 20s for Adonai Mitchell. If they do end up trading down and getting an extra 2 out of it, Kris Jenkins is another guy I'd want to target. He's strong enough to bulk up and play nose, but athletic enough to become a future 3T as well. Draft day this year will certainly be interesting.

Mitchell and Worthy would be EPIC!!!

[Chromeburn]

Watching BTj and that guy is special. I think he might be my second choice after Bowers now.

Bowers>BTj>Quinyon>Worthy is probably my preferred draft order.

[omahacolt]

Watching BTj and that guy is special. I think he might be my second choice after Bowers now.

Bowers>BTj>Quinyon>Worthy is probably my preferred draft order.

thats it for me.

[Dam8610]

At this point for me (since I know there's a snowball's chance in hell Ballard will draft Latu and his sub 33" arms):

1) Bowers
2) Thomas Jr.
3) Quinyon
4) Trade Down (A. Mitchell as the target in Round 1)
5) Verse
6) Arnold

As long as it's not Worthy, I'll be happy.

[apballin]

Ok so here’s mine

1. Bowers
2. If bowers is gone trade back
3. Worthy
4. DeJean
5. Quinyon Mitchell I wouldn’t be mad at that either

[Chromeburn]

At this point for me (since I know there's a snowball's chance in hell Ballard will draft Latu and his sub 33" arms):

1) Bowers
2) Thomas Jr.
3) Quinyon
4) Trade Down (A. Mitchell as the target in Round 1)
5) Verse
6) Arnold

As long as it's not Worthy, I'll be happy.

There is an argument to be made that it will be Latu. High character and good work ethic. 9.3 Ras same as the other DEs he’s drafted. Good senior bowl work. Tyquan has shorter arms. Faster and heavier than Turay. And is the most advanced skill wise of all of them. I would t discount him.

[YDFL Commish]

I would love it to be Latu...but sadly it won't be. Ballard is risk averse, and I doubt that Latu is even on his 1st round board.

As I have said before the GM's that pass on him will still be thinking like the GM's that passed on Suggs.

[Dam8610]

There is an argument to be made that it will be Latu. High character and good work ethic. 9.3 Ras same as the other DEs he’s drafted. Good senior bowl work. Tyquan has shorter arms. Faster and heavier than Turay. And is the most advanced skill wise of all of them. I would t discount him.

I hope you're right, and honestly there are several picks I'd be happy with as mentioned above, but Latu just doesn't seem to fit the DE profile Ballard likes to draft, especially with the medicals. Dallas Turner is the DE profile Ballard likes to draft, and IMO he has the biggest bust potential of any player projected to go in the top 25.

[Chromeburn]

I would love it to be Latu...but sadly it won't be. Ballard is risk averse, and I doubt that Latu is even on his 1st round board.

As I have said before the GM's that pass on him will still be thinking like the GM's that passed on Suggs.

Suggs was a 6.48 ras
Latu is a 9.3
If he is off his board it’s not for lack of athletiscm.

And we could have potentially three DEs with contracts ending next off season.

[Chromeburn]

I hope you're right, and honestly there are several picks I'd be happy with as mentioned above, but Latu just doesn't seem to fit the DE profile Ballard likes to draft, especially with the medicals. Dallas Turner is the DE profile Ballard likes to draft, and IMO he has the biggest bust potential of any player projected to go in the top 25.

Supposedly the medical came back ok. No one has heard anything about them.

[TheMugwump]

Arnold, but most decisions here aren't going to bother me. I'm fine if the Colts trade back a bit, or trade up a bit for a guy like Bowers or Nabors or whoever.

Also don't care that much if they draft Mitchell over Arnold. Any good CB would be huge though, and if they stay at #15 I hope they get one of them.

I also went Arnold, but I'd be fine with whoever. Mitchell seems much more athletic, but I believe I read he played mostly man in college, and I don't know if the Colts defense would fit his strengths.

[ukcolt]

I would argue that once you have a guy who can play man coverage at an elite level, then you are able to change your defensive schemes to suit and it makes life a lot easier for the remaining 10 defenders. If you don't have someone capable of being a shut down corner then of course you can't try to play that style of defense. I am not saying that Mitchell is at that calibre yet though, he hasn't played a single snap in the NFL.

[YDFL Commish]

Suggs was a 6.48 ras
Latu is a 9.3
If he is off his board it’s not for lack of athletiscm.

And we could have potentially three DEs with contracts ending next off season.

I'm sorry I should have clarified. If he's off of Ballard's board it is because of past injury concerns.

[ChaosTheory]

As typical, I'm behind the curve catching up on the draft class compared to a lot of you guys. Been watching more lately and I honestly would be happy with a half-dozen of these kids.

Big picture (tell me if I'm wrong): for being smack dab in the middle of the 1st, there's a solid chance we luck out insofar as other teams will be drafting positions we don't necessarily need. Namely: QB and OL.

From what I keep reading, in the 14 picks ahead of us, there is a realistic chance that 8-10 of them go to QB and OL. Ostensibly, that could mean as few as 4 guys we might want going off the board before we pick.

That also means (to some fans' horror), plenty of opportunity to move back and still get a guy they like. Total toss-up to me between multiple guys and trading back.

[Chromeburn]

I'm sorry I should have clarified. If he's off of Ballard's board it is because of past injury concerns.

Gotcha, that's what I thought as well. But I heard on NFL radio that his medicals from the combine all came back positive and there doesn't seem to be an issue.

[njcoltfan]

If Ballard was a serious suiter for Hunter, he knows he needs a REAL pass rusher, so if Verse or Latu are still available at 15, then one of them should absolutely, without a doubt, it's a no brainer, be the pick !!! JMO though.

[IndyNorm]

If Ballard was a serious suiter for Hunter, he knows he needs a REAL pass rusher, so if Verse or Latu are still available at 15, then one of them should absolutely, without a doubt, it's a no brainer, be the pick !!! JMO though.

To play a little devil's advocate, AR needs weapons in the passing game, which IMO will make it tough to pass on Bowers and/or BTJ if either is there at 15.

Also, based on the stats it looks like Verse disappeared for stretches during this past season. I didn't watch much of FSU this year, so could be that the stats are misleading. Of course Ballard has never really considered college production in his draft evaluation, so there's that too.

[YDFL Commish]

As typical, I'm behind the curve catching up on the draft class compared to a lot of you guys. Been watching more lately and I honestly would be happy with a half-dozen of these kids.

Big picture (tell me if I'm wrong): for being smack dab in the middle of the 1st, there's a solid chance we luck out insofar as other teams will be drafting positions we don't necessarily need. Namely: QB and OL.

From what I keep reading, in the 14 picks ahead of us, there is a realistic chance that 8-10 of them go to QB and OL. Ostensibly, that could mean as few as 4 guys we might want going off the board before we pick.

That also means (to some fans' horror), plenty of opportunity to move back and still get a guy they like. Total toss-up to me between multiple guys and trading back.

Good point. So let's do the math.

Likely to be picked in the top 14:

4 QB's
3 WR's
3 EDGE
2 OT's
1 TE
1 CB

[IndyNorm]

Good point. So let's do the math.

Likely to be picked in the top 14:

4 QB's
3 WR's
3 EDGE
2 OT's
1 TE
1 CB

Well that would suck since probably Bowers, BTJ, Verse, Latu, Turner, and either Q Mitchell or Arnold would all be gone. Guessing if that's how it plays out we either take whoever's left between Q Mitchell/Arnold or more likely trade down.

Edit: He hasn't been brought up for awhile, so I forgot about Odunze. So under Commish's scenario I would take BTJ.

[nate505]

So, just curious, who is the one guy that could fall to #15 that you would be irate for a trade down (barring some sort of unrealistic trade, like a 3 first rounders this and next year).

Like this mock draft has Brock Bowers falling to the Colts. While I don't think it will play out this way, it seems at least in the realm of possibility:

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-j-j-mccarthy-nearly-falls-out-of-top-10-while-vikings-trade-back-twice-6-qbs-go-round-1/

If Ballard trades out of the 15 with Bowers on the board for like a 23 and a 41, I'll be upset. I get the "more bites of the apple" philosophy, but sometimes it's better to have one bigger bite.

That said, if it's a guy like Terrion Arnold (who I like and want them to draft), I'll be less upset. Probably Bowers and one of the top 3 WRs (who won't likely be there) are it for me, and Dallas Turner (I don't even want an Edge rusher really, but I won't hate it especially if it's him).

[Dam8610]

Good point. So let's do the math.

Likely to be picked in the top 14:

4 QB's
3 WR's
3 EDGE
2 OT's
1 TE
1 CB

Where do you get 3 EDGE? If Atlanta stays at 8 and drafts an EDGE, Chicago will likely have Odunze or Nabers fall into their lap and pick whichever WR falls to them, likely Odunze. The Jets are drafting a weapon or a OT, the Broncos may go QB and the Raiders could, too, and they likely go OT if not QB, maybe CB. Saints will also likely go OT.

I think what you'll have in the top 14 is:
5 QBs
3 WRs
1 EDGE
1 TE
3-4 OT
0-1 CB

[Dam8610]

So, just curious, who is the one guy that could fall to #15 that you would be irate for a trade down (barring some sort of unrealistic trade, like a 3 first rounders this and next year).

Like this mock draft has Brock Bowers falling to the Colts. While I don't think it will play out this way, it seems at least in the realm of possibility:

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-j-j-mccarthy-nearly-falls-out-of-top-10-while-vikings-trade-back-twice-6-qbs-go-round-1/

If Ballard trades out of the 15 with Bowers on the board for like a 23 and a 41, I'll be upset. I get the "more bites of the apple" philosophy, but sometimes it's better to have one bigger bite.

That said, if it's a guy like Terrion Arnold (who I like and want them to draft), I'll be less upset. Probably Bowers and one of the top 3 WRs (who won't likely be there) are it for me, and Dallas Turner (I don't even want an Edge rusher really, but I won't hate it especially if it's him).

If Bowers is on the board at 15, I think he's the pick. That said, I wouldn't be mad at a trade out there. At 23, you probably still get Latu or A. Mitchell at least, maybe have to settle for Johnny Newton, who is by no means a terrible consolation prize, and you get another top 50 player out of the deal. That said, there are ways to address all the important needs in this draft no matter who is selected in the first round. IMO, the Colts should come away with a starting caliber WR and CB from this draft (and I only say WR because this class is so good). Other than that, they need to build depth for the future. I think one of the first 2 picks will be spent on a WR and one of the first 3 will be spent on a CB. Beyond that, I think BPA is the best bet.

[IndyNorm]

So, just curious, who is the one guy that could fall to #15 that you would be irate for a trade down (barring some sort of unrealistic trade, like a 3 first rounders this and next year).

Like this mock draft has Brock Bowers falling to the Colts. While I don't think it will play out this way, it seems at least in the realm of possibility:

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-j-j-mccarthy-nearly-falls-out-of-top-10-while-vikings-trade-back-twice-6-qbs-go-round-1/

If Ballard trades out of the 15 with Bowers on the board for like a 23 and a 41, I'll be upset. I get the "more bites of the apple" philosophy, but sometimes it's better to have one bigger bite.

That said, if it's a guy like Terrion Arnold (who I like and want them to draft), I'll be less upset. Probably Bowers and one of the top 3 WRs (who won't likely be there) are it for me, and Dallas Turner (I don't even want an Edge rusher really, but I won't hate it especially if it's him).

If either Bowers or BTJ is evaluable and we trade down and miss either or both of them then I'll be pissed off. Actually the more that I think about it the more I'd like to see us trade up to ensure we get one of those 2, or better yet make a big move into the top 10 to get one of the 3 elite WRs. I know chances are slim to none of us trading up, but we have enough solid contributors. What we need more of is elite level difference makers.

[ChaosTheory]

Good point. So let's do the math.

Likely to be picked in the top 14:

4 QB's
3 WR's
3 EDGE
2 OT's
1 TE
1 CB

Where do you get 3 EDGE? If Atlanta stays at 8 and drafts an EDGE, Chicago will likely have Odunze or Nabers fall into their lap and pick whichever WR falls to them, likely Odunze. The Jets are drafting a weapon or a OT, the Broncos may go QB and the Raiders could, too, and they likely go OT if not QB, maybe CB. Saints will also likely go OT.

I think what you'll have in the top 14 is:
5 QBs
3 WRs
1 EDGE
1 TE
3-4 OT
0-1 CB

I tend to anticipate Dam's prediction more likely. For example, for what it's worth, here's a mock draft collab with the Bootleg guys (I like them) and a couple of PFF guys.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCf2yd8ZZ74&t=3019s

Their mock includes some hypothetical trades (e.g. LAC trades down twice from 5 to 11 and then 11 to 18). All that said, this is what their top 14 looked like:

1. CHI QB Williams
2. WAS QB Maye
3. NE QB Daniels
4. ARZ WR Harrison
5. MIN QB McCarthy
6. NYG WR Nabers
7. TEN OL Alt
8. ATL DL Newton
9. CHI WR Odunze
10. NYJ OL Fautanu
11. CIN OL Fuaga
12. DEN QB Nix
13. LVR QB Penix
14. NO OL Fashanu

So 6 QBs, 4 OL, 3 WR, and Newton. They have Quinyon Mitchell falling into our laps. Besides Mitchell, guys like Bowers, Thomas, Latu, Verse, Turner, etc. still available.

It's just a mock, but I've seen several other articles that indicate this kind of distribution which would leave the Colts a bunch of good options (including trading).

[Dam8610]

I tend to anticipate Dam's prediction more likely. For example, for what it's worth, here's a mock draft collab with the Bootleg guys (I like them) and a couple of PFF guys.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCf2yd8ZZ74&t=3019s

Their mock includes some hypothetical trades (e.g. LAC trades down twice from 5 to 11 and then 11 to 18). All that said, this is what their top 14 looked like:

1. CHI QB Williams
2. WAS QB Maye
3. NE QB Daniels
4. ARZ WR Harrison
5. MIN QB McCarthy
6. NYG WR Nabers
7. TEN OL Alt
8. ATL DL Newton
9. CHI WR Odunze
10. NYJ OL Fautanu
11. CIN OL Fuaga
12. DEN QB Nix
13. LVR QB Penix
14. NO OL Fashanu

So 6 QBs, 4 OL, 3 WR, and Newton. They have Quinyon Mitchell falling into our laps. Besides Mitchell, guys like Bowers, Thomas, Latu, Verse, Turner, etc. still available.

It's just a mock, but I've seen several other articles that indicate this kind of distribution which would leave the Colts a bunch of good options (including trading).

What I didn't like about their Colts pick in that mock was Brock Bowers was right there and they both just went, "Oh, Quinyon's there, take Quinyon". I get he's a pretty chalk pick for the Colts at 15, but not when Brock Bowers is staring you in the face. If Bowers is there, I'd expect the first 3 rounds to go something like:

15) TE Brock Bowers
46) WR Ricky Pearsall
82) CB Cam Hart

Which is a damn good first 3 rounds for the Colts.

[Racehorse]

If either Bowers or BTJ is evaluable and we trade down and miss either or both of them then I'll be pissed off. Actually the more that I think about it the more I'd like to see us trade up to ensure we get one of those 2, or better yet make a big move into the top 10 to get one of the 3 elite WRs. I know chances are slim to none of us trading up, but we have enough solid contributors. What we need more of is elite level difference makers.

I have heard that the bottom of this draft will be weaker than usual due to NIL deals for college players who would have been late round picks, so trading up and losing a sixth or seventh would not hurt much. However, I think it will take more than that to move up enough to get a good player.

[ukcolt]

If Bowers is on the board at 15, I think he's the pick. That said, I wouldn't be mad at a trade out there. At 23, you probably still get Latu or A. Mitchell at least, maybe have to settle for Johnny Newton, who is by no means a terrible consolation prize, and you get another top 50 player out of the deal. That said, there are ways to address all the important needs in this draft no matter who is selected in the first round. IMO, the Colts should come away with a starting caliber WR and CB from this draft (and I only say WR because this class is so good). Other than that, they need to build depth for the future. I think one of the first 2 picks will be spent on a WR and one of the first 3 will be spent on a CB. Beyond that, I think BPA is the best bet.

Being an Illini fan i love Johnny Newton, but we don't need any more interior DL depth in my opinion.

We already have Stewart, Buckner, Davis, Adebawore, Bryan, Johnson and then Odeyingbo and Lewis who move inside at times as well.

The starters are two of the better players at the position in the NFL, we then signed Davis to a decent sized contract to backup Stewart, which was our weakness last year (Newton is not the guy who would be replacing Stewart). The Colts clearly like Bryan as a rotational substitute for Buckner. Johnson, Adebawore and Bryan are likely fighting for 1 maybe only 2 spots.

At DE we have a solid, but not spectacular group that comprises; Paye, Ebukam, Odeyingbo, Lewis, Avery, Land, Leo, adding a 1st rounder here wouldn't be out of the question.

I think the Colts generally had 9 or 10 defensive linemen on their roster throughout last season. Lets say its 10, that in my eyes would be in order of priority, Buckner, Stewart, Ebukam, Paye, Davis, Odeyingbo, Lewis, Bryan, Avery and then the final guy would be between Land and Adebawore.

[YDFL Commish]

Where do you get 3 EDGE? If Atlanta stays at 8 and drafts an EDGE, Chicago will likely have Odunze or Nabers fall into their lap and pick whichever WR falls to them, likely Odunze. The Jets are drafting a weapon or a OT, the Broncos may go QB and the Raiders could, too, and they likely go OT if not QB, maybe CB. Saints will also likely go OT.

I think what you'll have in the top 14 is:
5 QBs
3 WRs
1 EDGE
1 TE
3-4 OT
0-1 CB

Between Verse, Turner, Robinson and Latu, I expect 3 of them to be gone. NFL teams over draft EDGE almost as much as the over draft QB.

[njcoltfan]

To play a little devil's advocate, AR needs weapons in the passing game, which IMO will make it tough to pass on Bowers and/or BTJ if either is there at 15.

Also, based on the stats it looks like Verse disappeared for stretches during this past season. I didn't watch much of FSU this year, so could be that the stats are misleading. Of course Ballard has never really considered college production in his draft evaluation, so there's that too.

AR has weapons, MPJ, Downs, Pierce and JT. What this team doesn't have is a legitimate pass rusher, and Ballard knows it. This years draft is deep in WR and CB, so IMHO, if Ballard can draft a pass rushing, get to QB stud he should.

[apballin]

AR has weapons, MPJ, Downs, Pierce and JT. What this team doesn't have is a legitimate pass rusher, and Ballard knows it. This years draft is deep in WR and CB, so IMHO, if Ballard can draft a pass rushing, get to QB stud he should.

The offense has no outside speed, heavily invested in defense. They’ve gotta make things easier for Richardson, get him an elite weapon that’s ready to play right away

[njcoltfan]

The offense has no outside speed, heavily invested in defense. They’ve gotta make things easier for Richardson, get him an elite weapon that’s ready to play right away

I can't remember ever seeing MJP being caught from behind, and Pierce was drafted for his deep speed. The Colts had weapons galore with Manning, but only one Lombardi trophy. IMO this team needs an elite defensive end, or the offense will be back to having to score on every possession.

[apballin]

I can't remember ever seeing MJP being caught from behind, and Pierce was drafted for his deep speed. The Colts had weapons galore with Manning, but only one Lombardi trophy. IMO this team needs an elite defensive end, or the offense will be back to having to score on every possession.

I disagree, the pass rush by committee worked last year and they can draft a situational pass rush guy like Booker later in the draft

[njcoltfan]

I disagree, the pass rush by committee worked last year and they can draft a situational pass rush guy like Booker later in the draft

I won't disagree that at times the pass rush by committee did work, but on more than one occasion it didn't, like game 17 vs the Texans, or against the Bengals, Saints or Falcons. The Colts need that one guy that can take over a game defensively.

[omahacolt]

I disagree, the pass rush by committee worked last year and they can draft a situational pass rush guy like Booker later in the draft

lack of pass rush was a major issue last year


and I suspect will be again this year

[apballin]

I won't disagree that at times the pass rush by committee did work, but on more than one occasion it didn't, like game 17 vs the Texans, or against the Bengals, Saints or Falcons. The Colts need that one guy that can take over a game defensively.

Every team has periods of a game where the pass rush is non existent I don’t care who it is, Did Parsons take over the game vs the Packers? Bosa take over the superbowl?

DPOY didn’t even make the playoffs

Offense sells tickets and wins championships nowadays

[IndyNorm]

AR has weapons, MPJ, Downs, Pierce and JT. What this team doesn't have is a legitimate pass rusher, and Ballard knows it. This years draft is deep in WR and CB, so IMHO, if Ballard can draft a pass rushing, get to QB stud he should.

Don't disagree that we need an elite pass rusher at DE. But the most important thing both short and long term is developing AR. So surrounding him w/ enough talent to succeed should be the priority, and (at least IMO) he doesn't have enough weapons in the passing game. Yes, MPJ and Downs fit the bill, but JT and Pierce don't (again at least IMO). While JT's a great runner he is an average pass catcher. Pierce is a one trick pony who struggles to get separation and also struggles to make contested catches. So if we have the chance to add an elite receiver to the mix then we should do so IMO.

I have heard that the bottom of this draft will be weaker than usual due to NIL deals for college players who would have been late round picks, so trading up and losing a sixth or seventh would not hurt much. However, I think it will take more than that to move up enough to get a good player.

No doubt it'll take more than just a late rounder or 2 to move up, but IMO it would be worth the draft capital to move up and draft some elite talent. Like I said before the chances of that are slim to none, but it's something I would like to see.

[Racehorse]

Don't disagree that we need an elite pass rusher at DE. But the most important thing both short and long term is developing AR. So surrounding him w/ enough talent to succeed should be the priority, and (at least IMO) he doesn't have enough weapons in the passing game. Yes, MPJ and Downs fit the bill, but JT and Pierce don't (again at least IMO). While JT's a great runner he is an average pass catcher. Pierce is a one trick pony who struggles to get separation and also struggles to make contested catches. So if we have the chance to add an elite receiver to the mix then we should do so IMO.



No doubt it'll take more than just a late rounder or 2 to move up, but IMO it would be worth the draft capital to move up and draft some elite talent. Like I said before the chances of that are slim to none, but it's something I would like to see.

We should also see the return of Dulin. He can get separation and catch the ball. I just don't know if he will get onto the field much, outside of special teams.

[YDFL Commish]

We should also see the return of Dulin. He can get separation and catch the ball. I just don't know if he will get onto the field much, outside of special teams.

Is Chris Ballard trolling our board? ;)

[Racehorse]

Is Chris Ballard trolling our board? ;)

Nah, but Dulin has speed. He just doesn't have football experience at WR to go with it.

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

or better yet make a big move into the top 10 to get one of the 3 elite WRs. I know chances are slim to none of us trading up,

so trading up and losing a sixth or seventh would not hurt much. However, I think it will take more than that to move up enough to get a good player.



Reportedly, the Jets are exploring trading down from 1.10.

If you look at some of the draft value charts, a trade with the Jets would look something like this:


Jets send:

1.10
3.72

Colts send:

1.15
2.46


Basically a pick swap - the Colts would lose their mid round 2nd round pick and replace it with the Jets early 3rd round pick to move up 5 spots in the 1st Round.

[apballin]

Reportedly, the Jets are exploring trading down from 1.10.

If you look at some of the draft value charts, a trade with the Jets would look something like this:


Jets send:

1.10
3.72

Colts send:

1.15
2.46


Basically a pick swap - the Colts would lose their mid round 2nd round pick and replace it with the Jets early 3rd round pick to move up 5 spots in the 1st Round.

No way, Ballards best picks have been 2nd rounders

[njcoltfan]

Don't disagree that we need an elite pass rusher at DE. But the most important thing both short and long term is developing AR. So surrounding him w/ enough talent to succeed should be the priority, and (at least IMO) he doesn't have enough weapons in the passing game. Yes, MPJ and Downs fit the bill, but JT and Pierce don't (again at least IMO). While JT's a great runner he is an average pass catcher. Pierce is a one trick pony who struggles to get separation and also struggles to make contested catches. So if we have the chance to add an elite receiver to the mix then we should do so IMO.



No doubt it'll take more than just a late rounder or 2 to move up, but IMO it would be worth the draft capital to move up and draft some elite talent. Like I said before the chances of that are slim to none, but it's something I would like to see.
I think you're wrong on Pierce, he was open deep a lot, problem was Minshew
couldn't get him the ball !!

[Chromeburn]

Reportedly, the Jets are exploring trading down from 1.10.

If you look at some of the draft value charts, a trade with the Jets would look something like this:


Jets send:

1.10
3.72

Colts send:

1.15
2.46


Basically a pick swap - the Colts would lose their mid round 2nd round pick and replace it with the Jets early 3rd round pick to move up 5 spots in the 1st Round.

Jets just watched Brock Bowers at his private workout and now want to trade down. Hmm

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

Jets just watched Brock Bowers at his private workout and now want to trade down. Hmm


The rumor was that the Jets were thinking about drafting an OT - that they could trade down a little (and pick up additional draft capital) and still snag a decent tackle in this draft class.

[YDFL Commish]

I think you're wrong on Pierce, he was open deep a lot, problem was Minshew
couldn't get him the ball !!

Indeed he was. Pierce ran more 9 routes than anybody in the NFL and he was open on many of them. Richardson will get him the ball.

[Chromeburn]

The rumor was that the Jets were thinking about drafting an OT - that they could trade down a little (and pick up additional draft capital) and still snag a decent tackle in this draft class.

They’re having Bowers in for a private workout. Wonder what they’re thinking. I don’t be like that Bowers didn’t test at all during his private workout. If I’m going to downs a top 10 pick on TE, I want C all his workout numbers.

[IndyNorm]

I think you're wrong on Pierce, he was open deep a lot, problem was Minshew
couldn't get him the ball !!

Minshew didn't help, but for someone who was supposedly open all of the time like you guys claim he was Pierce sure seemed to have a CB draped all over him most of the time when he was thrown the ball. Even w/ AR like on Pierce's dropped TD pass in week 1. At any rate IMO he hasn't shown enough for us to pass on someone like BTJ.

Although if Bowers is there I'm hoping we take him.

[njcoltfan]

Minshew didn't help, but for someone who was supposedly open all of the time like you guys claim he was Pierce sure seemed to have a CB draped all over him most of the time when he was thrown the ball. Even w/ AR like on Pierce's dropped TD pass in week 1. At any rate IMO he hasn't shown enough for us to pass on someone like BTJ.

Although if Bowers is there I'm hoping we take him.
If you have to wait for the ball to get to you, I don't care how fast you are, the CB's will catch up to you !! I'm hoping for either Verse or Latu !!!

[IndyNorm]

If you have to wait for the ball to get to you, I don't care how fast you are, the CB's will catch up to you !! I'm hoping for either Verse or Latu !!!

Pierce wasn't getting open w/ AR at QB either. Also, I read in an Indystar article that stated the Cols aren't confident that he'll be able to develop into much more than what he is. I tried to find the article to post the link, but it's over a month old and having trouble finding it. Will try again when I have some more time on my hands.

Understand your desire to draft a pass rusher, and we could use it. I do worry about Verse though as his production doesn't match his ability. Which actually makes him a Ballard type pick.

[Chromeburn]

The rumor was that the Jets were thinking about drafting an OT - that they could trade down a little (and pick up additional draft capital) and still snag a decent tackle in this draft class.

Supposedly if you want a good tackle you will have to take one in the first round. The drop-off once you get past the good ones is substantial. Might force a lot of team's hands which is, of course, good for us.

[Chromeburn]

Pierce wasn't getting open w/ AR at QB either. Also, I read in an Indystar article that stated the Cols aren't confident that he'll be able to develop into much more than what he is. I tried to find the article to post the link, but it's over a month old and having trouble finding it. Will try again when I have some more time on my hands.

Understand your desire to draft a pass rusher, and we could use it. I do worry about Verse though as his production doesn't match his ability. Which actually makes him a Ballard type pick.

Early on they were having AR throw fast and short. You can see it in his completion shart. I think they opened up a little in that last game. We will see this year. But Piece did get open at times and Minshew had either progressed past him or was rushing the play. If he did see him he would throw it late often allowing the CB to catch up. I was at a game and saw it for myself and you can see it on the all-22. Also to note, the separation stat everyone throws out is only on targets. They don't keep track if he is open and the QB doesn't go his way.

Now, this could be separate from them believing he won't be anymore than a deep threat. He has improved in his deep game, he stacks corners pretty well now. But if they don't think he can develop the other parts of his game that is something else. I should note that 23 seems to be a big age for WR's for some reason. They tend to improve around then so we should see here soon.

[ChaosTheory]

Don't throw in the towel on Pierce yet. Healthy AR will give us a better read on him. The separation and ADOT stats make you hopeful that a true QB1 can get him the ball.

But, really... it won't be apples-to-apples. Defenses will obviously not gameplan us the same was as they did with Minshew. That could easily mean that Pierce doesn't get those same open looks downfield because AR can actually burn them.

But that would also mean a trickle-down effect for the rest of the field loosening up. Everybody benefits if AR can take advantage. Pierce included.

[Racehorse]

Early on they were having AR throw fast and short. You can see it in his completion shart.

[QUOTE=ChaosTheory;295921]Don't throw in the towel on Pierce yet.

You might want to throw in the towel if he has a completion shart, like Chrome said.

[IndyNorm]

Don't throw in the towel on Pierce yet. Healthy AR will give us a better read on him. The separation and ADOT stats make you hopeful that a true QB1 can get him the ball.

But, really... it won't be apples-to-apples. Defenses will obviously not gameplan us the same was as they did with Minshew. That could easily mean that Pierce doesn't get those same open looks downfield because AR can actually burn them.

But that would also mean a trickle-down effect for the rest of the field loosening up. Everybody benefits if AR can take advantage. Pierce included.

I'm not saying we should completely give up on him. I'm just no so sure he'll end up being a legit WR2. And I definitely don't think we should pass on drafting a WR or TE b/c of him. Even if Pierce makes a jump this year we still need more weapons for AR.

[ChaosTheory]

I'm not saying we should completely give up on him. I'm just no so sure he'll end up being a legit WR2. And I definitely don't think we should pass on drafting a WR or TE b/c of him. Even if Pierce makes a jump this year we still need more weapons for AR.

Regardless of Pierce, I'd be surprised if they don't take a WR in this class.

As for Rd1... Bowers is probably the best football player that may still be available at #15, so if he's there take him. If not, maybe Thomas at WR but I would think they probably like a defender better in that spot if they don't trade down (which I lean towards).

Plus, it seems like a bunch of 2nd-round WR's will be available.

[Chromeburn]

Regardless of Pierce, I'd be surprised if they don't take a WR in this class.

As for Rd1... Bowers is probably the best football player that may still be available at #15, so if he's there take him. If not, maybe Thomas at WR but I would think they probably like a defender better in that spot if they don't trade down (which I lean towards).

Plus, it seems like a bunch of 2nd-round WR's will be available.

After listening to the Ballard press conference I definitely think they are going pass catcher first. If Bowers is there I think they take him. If any of the top three WRs drop I see them moving up a few spots if they get close. If not… I see them trading back a little to get picks and taking BTj or Worthy. Some oline in the middle rounds and probably throw a DE in there maybe the second. A athletic CB in later rounds also.

[IndyNorm]

Regardless of Pierce, I'd be surprised if they don't take a WR in this class.

As for Rd1... Bowers is probably the best football player that may still be available at #15, so if he's there take him. If not, maybe Thomas at WR but I would think they probably like a defender better in that spot if they don't trade down (which I lean towards).

Plus, it seems like a bunch of 2nd-round WR's will be available.

Agree we take a WR at some point if not 2, as at the very least we need more depth at WR.

I agree on Bowers. If he's still there at 15 he's likely the BPA so makes picking him seem like a no brainer. If Bowers is gone and we have a defensive player rated much higher than BTJ, then I suppose we take the D player. But if their grades are comparable then I'd like to see us take BTJ. As I said earlier, giving AR more weapons to help w/ his development should be a priority.

You're probably right about trading down. Depends on how things shake out ahead of us, but at this point I'm not a fan of it. If there's a true difference maker at 15 then just take him. Depending on the situation I'd like to see us move up, especially if one of the top 3 WRs drops to within trade up range for us. Although that would almost certainly be Odunze, and both BTJ and AD Mitchell have higher RAS scores so guessing Ballard may have both of them ranked just as high or higher as it is. Plus we all know that Ballard won't trade up.

[nate505]

Agree we take a WR at some point if not 2, as at the very least we need more depth at WR.

I agree on Bowers. If he's still there at 15 he's likely the BPA so makes picking him seem like a no brainer. If Bowers is gone and we have a defensive player rated much higher than BTJ, then I suppose we take the D player. But if their grades are comparable then I'd like to see us take BTJ. As I said earlier, giving AR more weapons to help w/ his development should be a priority.

You're probably right about trading down. Depends on how things shake out ahead of us, but at this point I'm not a fan of it. If there's a true difference maker at 15 then just take him. Depending on the situation I'd like to see us move up, especially if one of the top 3 WRs drops to within trade up range for us. Although that would almost certainly be Odunze, and both BTJ and AD Mitchell have higher RAS scores so guessing Ballard may have both of them ranked just as high or higher as it is. Plus we all know that Ballard won't trade up.

Trade up? For talent?!? Especially when there are so many wonderful athletes with amazing RAS scores?!?!?!?! Not on Ballard's watch!!!

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

Plus we all know that Ballard won't trade up.


Trade up? For talent?!? Especially when there are so many wonderful athletes with amazing RAS scores?!?!?!?! Not on Ballard's watch!!!


Ballard has traded up in the past so it is possible. Not likely, but possible.

But I think the Colts draft board will have to reflect that the targeted prospect is worth going up and getting.

And if Ballard moves up - he will most certainly try to recoup some extra picks later in the draft through other trades.

So, a different take on the earlier trade proposal with the Jets:


Jets trade:

1.10

Colts trade:

1.15
3.82
2025 3rd Round Pick


So the Colts will keep their mid-2nd Round Pick this year and not trade it to the Jets....only to then trade down from there and swap it for a late 2nd Round Pick and late 3rd Round Pick.

So, in the end, the Colts will move up a little in the first round but move back 10 - 15 spots each in Round 2 and Round 3. (and worry about recouping the 2025 3rd Round pick next year)

[ukcolt]

Agree we take a WR at some point if not 2, as at the very least we need more depth at WR.

If we take a receiver in the 1st or 2nd round alongside Pittman, Downs, Pierce and Dulin, do we really need to draft a 6th guy? In the 7th round maybe, but what are the chances of that guy actually turning into anything? Personally i would far rather take a flyer on an offensive lineman where you are keeping 9 or 10 guys and they will make a difference.

[YDFL Commish]

After listening to the Ballard press conference I definitely think they are going pass catcher first. If Bowers is there I think they take him. If any of the top three WRs drop I see them moving up a few spots if they get close. If not… I see them trading back a little to get picks and taking BTj or Worthy. Some oline in the middle rounds and probably throw a DE in there maybe the second. A athletic CB in later rounds also.

If we don't come away with a CB in the first two rounds, I will be highly disappointed.

[IndyNorm]

Ballard has traded up in the past so it is possible. Not likely, but possible.

But I think the Colts draft board will have to reflect that the targeted prospect is worth going up and getting.


Never say never, but it's extremely unlikely. In his 7 drafts w/ the Colts Ballard has moved up 4 times. 2 of them where he had to give up minimal draft capital to move up 3 spots in/into the 2nd round (JT and Lewis trades), and 2 more where mid round picks were involved (Willis and Cross). For good or for bad I really doubt Ballard will ever give up the draft capital it takes to move up in the 1st round.

So, a different take on the earlier trade proposal with the Jets:


Jets trade:

1.10

Colts trade:

1.15
3.82
2025 3rd Round Pick


So the Colts will keep their mid-2nd Round Pick this year and not trade it to the Jets....only to then trade down from there and swap it for a late 2nd Round Pick and late 3rd Round Pick.

So, in the end, the Colts will move up a little in the first round but move back 10 - 15 spots each in Round 2 and Round 3. (and worry about recouping the 2025 3rd Round pick next year)

Worth it IMO if we can get one of the elite WRs or if it looks like Bowers will be gone by the time we draft.

If we take a receiver in the 1st or 2nd round alongside Pittman, Downs, Pierce and Dulin, do we really need to draft a 6th guy? In the 7th round maybe, but what are the chances of that guy actually turning into anything? Personally i would far rather take a flyer on an offensive lineman where you are keeping 9 or 10 guys and they will make a difference.

Yeah, if we take a WR in the 1st or 2nd then mentioned 2nd WR would have to be a later round pick. Remember Dulin is coming off an ACL tear so could very well start the season on the PUP. Also, since Dulin is such a good STer it doesn't kill us to keep 6 WRs, especially if said late round draftee can play STs as well. With that being said if the BPAs on day 3 are all at other positions then we should be all means draft them.

[Dam8610]

Pre-draft press conference seems to indicate they want to trade down.

[albany ed]

If we don't come away with a CB in the first two rounds, I will be highly disappointed.

It appears to be a plentiful year for both CB and WR. Given that in a typical year, CB is the 3rd most selected position and WR is the 5th, I'm hoping they go CB first round and WR in the second. The adage "best player available" should actually be "best player available in a needed position".

[IndyNorm]

Pre-draft press conference seems to indicate they want to trade down.

Even without Ballard's comments it's a pretty good assumption. Trading down is fine I guess as long as Bowers is drafted before us and we still get (preferably) BTJ or someone like Latu, or one of the top CBs. What I really don't want to see us do is trade down multiple times and end up drafting a bunch of good, but not great guys. We have plenty of good players on the roster already. What we need are true difference makers.

If we don't come away with a CB in the first two rounds, I will be highly disappointed.

I wouldn't hold my breath. Ballard's comments on our CB group are very similar to what he said about the OL last year. To give him credit, he was right about the OL.

The adage "best player available" should actually be "best player available in a needed position".

In the early rounds I mostly agree and Ballard seems to follow this which is why we trade down so often. For day 3 picks though I think you should just go w/ the BPA; at least for rounds 5-7. Those are such a crap shoot anyway that you really shouldn't handcuff yourself.

[ChaosTheory]

After listening to the Ballard press conference I definitely think they are going pass catcher first. If Bowers is there I think they take him. If any of the top three WRs drop I see them moving up a few spots if they get close. If not… I see them trading back a little to get picks and taking BTj or Worthy. Some oline in the middle rounds and probably throw a DE in there maybe the second. A athletic CB in later rounds also.

Interesting. I finished listening to it earlier and I came away feeling less confident they'd go for a WR at #15/trade up. I think Bowers would be undeniable if he somehow falls to us. But besides that, he said a few things...

A.) He mentioned WR and OL specifically as having great depth in this class - suggests to me that he can land a solid WR + pick(s) with a trade-back.

B.) He said it wasn't a "weak" defensive class, but it's heavy offense, and they have 19-21 1st round grades - suggests to me that spending the #15 overall on a top-3 defender (according to their board) would be a priority over a top-5 WR.

C.) As he's done before, he emphasized that protection over skill positions (that whole thing about Andrew Luck being able to get the ball to anybody, he just needs to not die) - suggests he still doesn't feel pressed to reach on a WR.

I do like the idea of Brian Thomas... I'm not sure I like it better than Cooper DeJean/Quinyon Mitchell unless it's slight trade-back where we could still snag him + a pick.

[Mr. Session]

I refrained from actually voting until now.

I still want to see them trade up. It doesn't have to be Harrison, but if one of these playmakers is on the board - I want them.

It's not a hill I'll die on. If they choose to trade down, so be it. I just want a difference maker out of this draft, desperately. I don't care what position.

[Chromeburn]

If we don't come away with a CB in the first two rounds, I will be highly disappointed.

In the second I think Max Melton and TJ Tampa are the only two guys. Maybe Cam Hart depending how far he has risen. After that it’s later round guy that fit their model.

[Dam8610]

In the second I think Max Melton and TJ Tampa are the only two guys. Maybe Cam Hart depending how far he has risen. After that it’s later round guy that fit their model.

That's why the Quinyon Mitchell/R2 WR (My personal choice is Ricky Pearsall) combo is, in my opinion, the best option unless they're going to trade up for someone like Rome Odunze if he falls to 8 or 9 overall. The drop from BTJ to Pearsall is not that much in my opinion, whereas the drop from Mitchell to Tampa or Melton is a cliff.

[ChaosTheory]

That's why the Quinyon Mitchell/R2 WR (My personal choice is Ricky Pearsall) combo is, in my opinion, the best option unless they're going to trade up for someone like Rome Odunze if he falls to 8 or 9 overall. The drop from BTJ to Pearsall is not that much in my opinion, whereas the drop from Mitchell to Tampa or Melton is a cliff.

That's what I'm thinking. Bowers > Top CB > Trade Down WR + Pick.

I'm curious what you guys think about DeJean. Mitchell just jumps out like a perfect fit for us and I'd be super excited with him. He's like classic top-shelf CB.

But I've also been watching/reading more of DeJean lately... I was under the impression he was an iffy prospect because I had read people suggesting he move to safety.

No way. Looks like they played off a lot at Iowa (like Bradley will call), and he looks to have some tremendous instinct/savvy. He has really good ball skills and is a really good return man (new kickoff rules). He also looks like the best tackling DB.

Athletically, he's a stud. He doesn't have the top-end speed of Mitchell (4.33), but coming off a broken leg he posted a 4.43. And every other test was virtually equal, if not better, than Mitchell's.

I'm not saying I'd necessarily take him over Mitchell, but he's extremely intriguing to me.

[Dam8610]

That's what I'm thinking. Bowers > Top CB > Trade Down WR + Pick.

I'm curious what you guys think about DeJean. Mitchell just jumps out like a perfect fit for us and I'd be super excited with him. He's like classic top-shelf CB.

But I've also been watching/reading more of DeJean lately... I was under the impression he was an iffy prospect because I had read people suggesting he move to safety.

No way. Looks like they played off a lot at Iowa (like Bradley will call), and he looks to have some tremendous instinct/savvy. He has really good ball skills and is a really good return man (new kickoff rules). He also looks like the best tackling DB.

Athletically, he's a stud. He doesn't have the top-end speed of Mitchell (4.33), but coming off a broken leg he posted a 4.43. And every other test was virtually equal, if not better, than Mitchell's.

I'm not saying I'd necessarily take him over Mitchell, but he's extremely intriguing to me.

I saw somebody say that picking Cooper DeJean would be like getting socks for a holiday, you know it will be practical and useful, but you were hoping for more.

And that kind of sums up how I'd feel about drafting Cooper DeJean.

[njcoltfan]

I would like 1 of Verse, Turner or Latu. If they draft one of them, I won't give a Rats ass what else they do. It's about time Ballard drafts a pass rusher instead of making feeble attempts to sign one in free agency !!!! JMHO

[apballin]

I would like 1 of Verse, Turner or Latu. If they draft one of them, I won't give a Rats ass what else they do. It's about time Ballard drafts a pass rusher instead of making feeble attempts to sign one in free agency !!!! JMHO

They drafted Paye

[njcoltfan]

They drafted Paye

He never was, or never will be, an elite pass rusher.

[Mr. Session]

That's why the Quinyon Mitchell/R2 WR (My personal choice is Ricky Pearsall) combo is, in my opinion, the best option unless they're going to trade up for someone like Rome Odunze if he falls to 8 or 9 overall. The drop from BTJ to Pearsall is not that much in my opinion, whereas the drop from Mitchell to Tampa or Melton is a cliff.

I could stomach this as well.

I like the idea of Pearsall. Familiarity with Richardson, diverse skill set, he looks the part, and he can serve as competition to Pierce (and even Downs to some extent) to continue to push development.

I like a lot about Mitchell. He sounds like a Ballard guy as well, measurable wise. IIRC he looked pretty good blitzing out of the nickel as well.

[apballin]

He never was, or never will be, an elite pass rusher.

Problem is we don’t know if anyone from this draft will be either

Truly elite guys tend to go top 5

[Colts And Orioles]

o


Ask me about 6 years from now, and I'll tell you who I would have wanted the Colts to have drafted with their #15 pick.

o

[Chromeburn]

They drafted Paye

And Dayo who I think is pretty disruptive. Remember these guys go on a rotation. It’s not like Freeney out there for 60 snaps. Still never hurts to have another pass rusher.

[ChaosTheory]

I guess other teams are saying the Colts are looking to trade up. For shits, assume that's the case...

Who would it be for? Worried Mitchell won't be there? Actually trying to get a top WR? Dallas Turner too much of a freak to pass?

Watch them go OL and kill thousands of fans.

[Dam8610]

I guess other teams are saying the Colts are looking to trade up. For shits, assume that's the case...

Who would it be for? Worried Mitchell won't be there? Actually trying to get a top WR? Dallas Turner too much of a freak to pass?

Watch them go OL and kill thousands of fans.

If they're trading up, I'd imagine it's to 8 at the highest (because to get 8 and 109 would cost 15 and 46 on the TVC), and it would almost have to be for the one of Odunze or Nabers that falls. I could also see a smaller trade up (to say 11 or 12, which would cost 15 and 82 according to TVC) for Bowers.

[Kray007]

Want Turner. Willing to settle for Verse or Mitchell.

[IndyNorm]

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2024/04/24/nfl-draft-rumor-colts-making-calls-about-potentially-trading-up/

This article has some analysts saying it's Mitchell or possibly Arnold. Mitchell makes sense. I don't think Arnold's RAS score is high enough to get Ballard excited enough to trade up for him.

If we do trade up I hope it's as Dam mentions for one of the top WRs or only a small trade up for Bowers.

Speaking of trading up, there was a RATS article published yesterday about trading up for MHJ. The guy who wrote it said he used the NFL Mock Draft Database to determine it would take 15, and next year's 1st and 3rd to move up to 4. If that is what it takes then I'd be for doing it, but pretty sure it would take more than that.

[Dam8610]

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2024/04/24/nfl-draft-rumor-colts-making-calls-about-potentially-trading-up/

This article has some analysts saying it's Mitchell or possibly Arnold. Mitchell makes sense. I don't think Arnold's RAS score is high enough to get Ballard excited enough to trade up for him.

If we do trade up I hope it's as Dam mentions for one of the top WRs or only a small trade up for Bowers.

Speaking of trading up, there was a RATS article published yesterday about trading up for MHJ. The guy who wrote it said he used the NFL Mock Draft Database to determine it would take 15, and next year's 1st and 3rd to move up to 4. If that is what it takes then I'd be for doing it, but pretty sure it would take more than that.

With team's trying to move up for a QB, there's no way that package gets the Colts to 4. You'd be lucky to get to 6 with that package this year.

[njcoltfan]

Problem is we don’t know if anyone from this draft will be either

Truly elite guys tend to go top 5
That might be true, Dayo and Paye didn't go anywhere near the top 5, they were both projects coming out of college. If either Turner, Verse or Latu were drafted by the Colt's they would immediately become their best pass rusher. It's time Ballard stops drafting guys like Turray, Banago, Dayo and Paye, and gets a guy that has showed he can get to the QB !

[ChaosTheory]

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2024/04/24/nfl-draft-rumor-colts-making-calls-about-potentially-trading-up/

This article has some analysts saying it's Mitchell or possibly Arnold. Mitchell makes sense. I don't think Arnold's RAS score is high enough to get Ballard excited enough to trade up for him.

If we do trade up I hope it's as Dam mentions for one of the top WRs or only a small trade up for Bowers.

Speaking of trading up, there was a RATS article published yesterday about trading up for MHJ. The guy who wrote it said he used the NFL Mock Draft Database to determine it would take 15, and next year's 1st and 3rd to move up to 4. If that is what it takes then I'd be for doing it, but pretty sure it would take more than that.

I have a completely irrational desire for us to get Harrison (#88 is my favorite football player of all-time). We know Ballard's style, but beyond that, it's just objectively going to be crazy expensive to get up to 4th overall. But, like I said, I'm irrational about that one.

I do think this year might have an abnormal amount of shuffling because so many teams need OL, if not QB. You could actually see ARZ and LAC trading down to those teams who might not take him.

And then it gets way convoluted if that starts happening because they're bidding against each other.

[YDFL Commish]

Only Arizona would be dumb enough to trade down.

[IndyNorm]

I have a completely irrational desire for us to get Harrison (#88 is my favorite football player of all-time). We know Ballard's style, but beyond that, it's just objectively going to be crazy expensive to get up to 4th overall. But, like I said, I'm irrational about that one.

I do think this year might have an abnormal amount of shuffling because so many teams need OL, if not QB. You could actually see ARZ and LAC trading down to those teams who might not take him.

And then it gets way convoluted if that starts happening because they're bidding against each other.

Sentimentality aside, MHJ is an elite talent at a premium position. As is Nabers. Adding either of them to our offense would be off the charts huge. Guessing it would probably cost at least our 1st and 2nd this year and next year's 1st and 3rd to move up to draft either of them (basing this off of what Hou gave up to move to #3 last year), and that's probably too rich for my blood much less Ballard's.

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

Never say never, but it's extremely unlikely. In his 7 drafts w/ the Colts Ballard has moved up 4 times. 2 of them where he had to give up minimal draft capital to move up 3 spots in/into the 2nd round (JT and Lewis trades), and 2 more where mid round picks were involved (Willis and Cross). For good or for bad I really doubt Ballard will ever give up the draft capital it takes to move up in the 1st round.



Via Hard Knocks (video clip below), we found out that Ballard tried to move up to 1.06 by throwing in two 2nd Round Picks (2024's 2.46 and the 2025 2nd Round Pick).

However, the Giants were not interested in moving back to 1.15.


https://x.com/MySportsUpdate/status/1818457132825550865

[Discflinger]

What does that add up to for Jimmy?

[apballin]

Via Hard Knocks (video clip below), we found out that Ballard tried to move up to 1.06 by throwing in two 2nd Round Picks (2024's 2.46 and the 2025 2nd Round Pick).

However, the Giants were not interested in moving back to 1.15.


https://x.com/MySportsUpdate/status/1818457132825550865

Hopefully this ends up being a blessing in disguise like the Mcdaniels fiasco

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

What does that add up to for Jimmy?


Presumably the Colts were trying to move up to draft one of the big name WR's.

The sports reporter who clipped and posted the video speculated the Colts were targeting Bowers...but it seems to me that if the Colts were trying to move all the way up to 6, they were trying to nab Nabers or Odunze.

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

Hopefully this ends up being a blessing in disguise like the Mcdaniels fiasco


After the trades to move up did not materialize (I bet they continued trying to move up and didn't stop with this offer to the NYG), I doubt the Colts could have scripted the draft much better.

They were able to snag two players that many pundits had assigned first round grades - both have some risk and there were reasons why they were still on the board when the Colts selected, but both have a lot of potential upside as well.

[Dam8610]

After the trades to move up did not materialize (I bet they continued trying to move up and didn't stop with this offer to the NYG), I doubt the Colts could have scripted the draft much better.

They were able to snag two players that many pundits had assigned first round grades - both have some risk and there were reasons why they were still on the board when the Colts selected, but both have a lot of potential upside as well.

The first two rounds of this draft for the Colts were a coup. I thought Latu would be off Ballard’s board because of his arm length, but based on the tape and the production he was up there with Nick Bosa and Myles Garrett. We can only hope he'll have that level of impact in the NFL.

If you had told me that the Colts could walk away from the first two rounds with Laiatu Latu and Adonai Mitchell in February, I'd've taken that with no hesitation. The fact that the Colts were able to get two extra 5th round picks and turn those into potentially productive players as well is just the icing on the cake.

[YDFL Commish]

Ditto what Dammy said. I thought that Ballard would pass on Latu due to athletic traits or injury concerns.

For that reason I chose Quinyon Mitchell.

But I'm certainly happy with the Latu pick.