The Indianapolis Colts had high hopes of winning the AFC South prior to the 2015 season, but all they accomplished was finish second in the division with a pedestrian 8-8 record. The franchise will look to turn things around this year and the upcoming 2016 NFL Draft should help them shore up the lineup they hope will elevate their level of play. Read on for a breakdown of the Colts’ first five picks.
Round 1: Pick #18 (18th overall) – OT Jack Conklin – Michigan State
NEEDS at OT: The Colts’ future remains in Andrew Luck’s hands but Indianapolis’ offensive line doesn’t seem to get that. Luck has been one of the most hit quarterback in the past season, wherein Colts’ quarterbacks received a total of 118 hits—the second most allowed by any team.
STRENGTHS: One of the best intangible qualities of Conklin is his knack for getting back on plays during the rare times he was initially beaten. His strength reflects his massive frame (6’6”, 308 pounds), as scouts marvel at his ability to stand his ground against bull rushes. He doesn’t have an NFL speed at his position but reads plays well and is constantly on the prowl for someone to block.
NEEDS at DE:Robert Mathis can’t do it forever. The 14-year veteran was tied with Kendall Langford atop the Colts’ sack leadership with seven, but he’s a 35-year-old pass rusher, whose health becomes more and more susceptible to injury. And he’s not the only old guy on the edge of the defensive line with 33-year-old Trent Cole also positioned there. That doesn’t sound too comforting for Indianapolis’ defense that ranked just 23rd last season in sacks with 35.
STRENGTHS:Set aside his off-the-field issues and Spence would likely be drafted in the first round. The Colts, however, could take the kid in the second round and help transform his behavior. The skill set is already there for the defensive end out of Eastern Kentucky. Spence’ first step is as explosive as they come and he uses his quickness to leave offensive linemen eating his dust.
Round 3: Pick #19 (82nd overall) – CB Sean Davis – Maryland
NEEDS at CB: The departure of Greg Toler this offseason makes the Colts’ secondary unit a bit shallower. It’s a good thing the Colts still have Pro Bowler Vontae Davis manning the right side but minus Toler, the Colts must be thinking of adding a body over at the left corner. And it’s not like Toler’s a big loss for the Colts considering his inconsistent play and susceptibility to injury.
STRENGTHS:Davis has a nonstop motor that made him stand out on the field. He’s all over the turf, making sure opponents feel his presence physically. He registered 88 tackles, three interceptions, and was one of the leaders in the FBS in forced fumbles back in 2015. He’s played safety in the amateurs, which means he’ll bring versatility too to whichever team will draft him.
NEEDS at RB: Frank Gore isn’t getting any younger and based on his numbers last season, you know he’s at that point of his career where he’s only running on fumes. Backups Robert Turbin and Jordan Todman are only under contract for one year so there’s a reason to believe that Ryan Grigson will address the position in the draft.
STRENGTHS: Collins had three-straight seasons in Arkansas with at least 1,000 rushing yards and he managed that feat with a mixture his own mixture of pure talent and sheer persistence of extending plays. He gets to top speed quickly but also shows impressive change-of -direction abilities even before hitting the afterburners.
NEEDS at S: Mike Adams is still with the Colts and his presence on the team’s secondary is a big plus next season for Indianapolis. However, the departure of Dwight Lowery in free agency has left a significant void to fill in the safety position. The Colts have Clayton Geathers to cover that hole but depth will be a question if he does.
STRENGTHS:The first thing that’ll strike you upon seeing Kearse is his size. The Clemson product stands 6’5” and weights around 216 pounds. He’s length is above average and he uses these physical gifts to pester ball carriers.
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