The 2019 NFL Combine will be littered with the top prospects for the 2019 NFL Draft right on the home turf for the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium next week.
While the Colts will have their eyes on every position in the drills, they should have an extremely keen eye on the edge rusher group. With a need to add a talented pass rusher, this draft class might have the answer.
Using the league’s list of players classified as “edge,” here are five edge rushers the Colts should watch at the Combine:
Brian Burns, Florida State
While it isn’t clear who will be on the board at No. 26 overall, there are a few players that likely won’t be, which is why guys like Josh Allen and Nick Bosa won’t be a part of this list. Plus, everyone will be watching them anyway.
Burns is an intriguing fit for the Colts off the edge. If he’s available at 26, there are few arguments as to why the Colts shouldn’t draft him. A lengthy and bendy pass rusher, Burns as a complete set of skills that help him win off the edge.
He sets the edge well by maintaining outside leverage using his length and quickness to his advantage. Burns is a high-motor player that wins constantly on the edge. His stock will likely shoot up if he weighs in over 240.
Jalen Jelks, Oregon
A massive radius with a solid frame for an edge player, Jelks is a prospect the Colts could target after Day 1. He’s strong against the run using his size and quickness to make plays in the backfield, but he’s a bit raw when it comes to rushing the passer.
Jelks has all the tools necessary to be a successful pass rusher in the NFL, which is why he’s a nice fit for the Colts. He has the ability to win in many ways, he just has to refine his pass rushing prowess.
Jelks might be more of a mid-round target, but he’s someone that can help his stock with an athletic showing at the Combine, which is an aspect the Colts hold in high regard.
Jachai Polite, Florida
A speed rusher that would fit perfectly into the Colts’ attacking front, Polite is a prospect that is likely to be off of the board by the time the draft rolls around, but his relatively small frame could push him down.
Polite has exceptional bend off the edge coupled with elite explosiveness off the line and speed to run the arc. He’s well-versed with pass rushing moves that will allow him to succeed at the next level. He has a hot motor that would help him thrive in Matt Eberflus’ defense.
Polite might get pegged as an outside linebacker in 3-4, but he’s an intriguing look for the Colts, who must find pass rushers to get home with consistency, which is what Polite does.
Montez Sweat, Mississippi State
After blowing up the Senior Bowl, Sweat saw his stock rise a bit entering the first round projections. He’s gone everywhere from a late first-rounder to a top 10 pick. It’s anyone’s guess where he will actually go.
Sweat is a technically sound pass rusher that has the capability of winning with several moves after an explosive get off on the line of scrimmage. His athleticism is a bit of a concern, especially his flexibility. However, he’s able to win with elite length.
Sweat projects as a 4-3 defensive end and while there are rightful concerns about his ability to turn the corner, he should be on the list for the Colts in the first round.
Oshane Ximines, Old Dominion
With a hot motor and excellent hand usage, Ximines is able to find ways to counter his lack of bend and burst off of the edge. His first step could be a concern and ultimately what makes the Colts pass on him in the draft.
However, he can improve his stock with a solid showing at the Combine, especially if he’s able to show he has the capability of being a solid athlete. There aren’t any concerns about his motor or rush moves, which help him stay among the tops at the position.
Ximines looks to project as an outside linebacker, but the measurements and drills should give a better look into that. He’s a relentless pass rusher with an excellent repertoire of rush moves, but his athleticism is a concern.
.jpg?w=600)
