The Indianapolis Colts are hoping to get an immediate impact from their first-round pick in edge rusher Kwity Paye, who should compete for starting snaps right away.
Bleacher Report’s Maurice Moton went through and predicted the impact of every first-round pick from the 2021 NFL draft during their rookie seasons, and Paye came out with a strong campaign.
Paye has a good chance to carve out an early starting role as Kemoko Turay and Tyquan Lewis also battle for more snaps. If Indianapolis re-signs Houston, the rookie will likely contribute as a reserve in a rotation. Regardless, he’ll play a decent role in 2021.
Projected Status: Early-season starter and Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate
Stat Projection: 58 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 7 sacks
Paye has a chance to start at strong-side defensive end next to All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. Though there is some development that needs to take place in terms of his counters and pass-rushing plan, Paye can thrive in the Colts’ one-gap front.
He will have some competition to work with Al-Quadin Muhammad and Tyquan Lewis, both of which can line up on the strong side. He may also be impacted when second-round pick Dayo Odeyingbo returns from his Achilles injury.
The Colts know they have some development to work on with Paye but if he gives him this kind of rookie season, that would be a solid addition to the pass rush.
