Now that the month of February is here and the Super Bowl is just arriving, all of the attention surrounding the Indianapolis Colts is focusing on the 2020 NFL draft and the upcoming free agency crop.
A lot is going to change before the draft arrives at the end of April. Some players will be re-signed and free agency will play a major role in how the Colts go about their draft process.
Before it arrives, we will be going through several mock drafts with different scenarios. It’s not always about trying to get each pick right but seeing what the crop could look like when making certain decisions.
Using The Draft Network’s simulator, here’s a three-round mock draft in which the Colts decided to wait on a quarterback:
13. DT Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina
Most of Colts nation is hoping the front office will use this pick on a quarterback such as Jordan Love or even Justin Herbert if available. Both were in this simulation, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Chris Ballard will pull the trigger.
Ballard mentioned this offseason that the “three-technique drives” the defense. This could be a precursor to using their first-round pick on a talent like Kinlaw, who would immediately compete for the starting spot.
A penetrating and disruptive interior defensive lineman, Kinlaw would be a perfect fit for the Colts defense. Add in his high character and incredible story, and Kinlaw seems like one of the perfect fits for the Colts.
34. OT Josh Jones, Houston
This might be a pick that is out of sorts, but the Colts have to begin looking for their future left tackle. Does that mean they take a bonafide stud in Jones? Or do they wait and take an intriguing mid-round prospect.
Given that we don’t know much of Anthony Castonzo’s decision right now, offensive tackle should be high on the priority list. Even if Castonzo returns, finding a future left tackle is pertinent.
There are technical issues that Jones will have to work through, but that’s why the Colts brought in Chris Strausser to be their offensive line coach. With Jones’ length and flexibility, there is extreme promise to Castonzo’s successor.
44. WR Brandon Aiyuk, ASU
There is no denying the Colts need to add to the wide receiver position again this offseason. Even if they do bring in a veteran from free agency, Ballard will have to look at the draft again to bring in a high-upside piece.
With T.Y. Hilton, Parris Campbell and Zach Pascal currently leading the way, the Colts need some athleticism and play-making ability. Aiyuk isn’t ready to be a No. 1 wide receiver just yet. He has to improve beating press coverage and grabbing contested catches.
But his athleticism and play-making ability to go along with som enticing speed should be enough to warrant consideration in the second round of the draft.
75. QB Anthony Gordon, Washington State
Jacoby Brissett is still the starting quarterback for the Colts, and there is a very strong chance it stays that way for the 2020 season. But that doesn’t mean Ballard won’t be looking for life after Brissett, especially when his contract expires after the season.
Gordon doesn’t have incredible arm strength, and there are plenty of areas that need to be improved. But he’s also shown some intriguing ball placement and touch on throws at all levels of the field.
The Washington State product might be a bit of a reach in the third round but if the Colts are looking for someone to develop while addressing other needs before, Gordon could be the guy.
