The Indianapolis Colts will be targeting prospects in the 2019 NFL Draft that not only will have a positive impact on the field but also those that fit into the culture being built in the locker room.
Some front offices can deal with some big egos if the production on the field is worth it to them. For general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Frank Reich, the fitting into the culture of the locker room is just as important, if not more important.
Enter Clemson defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who said Sunday at the NFL combine that he wants teams to know he understands how important the locker room is.
“I want a team to realize that if you get me, they’re investing in so much more,” Wilkins said via George Bremer of The Herald Bulletin. “Just the ability to not only dominate on the field, be effective on the field, but also to improve the culture, whether it’s good, bad, ugly, different. I think ultimately, I’m the kind of guy you want in the locker room, you want on your team, on the field with you. I’m someone who’s just extremely committed and invested in my craft.”
With the No. 26 overall pick in the draft, Wilkins seems to be the perfect prospect. He’s a disruptive, versatile and polished interior defensive lineman that also checks all of the off-field boxes.
The Colts have a need to add to the pass rush, especially from the interior where collapsing the top of the pocket is becoming more vital with each passing season. Wilkins would be an immediate contributor for the Colts if he falls to their spot.
If the Colts are faced with the decision to draft Wilkins or another player, it will be tough to make an argument given not only his pedigree on the field but his character off of it as well.
