Through the first week of free agency, the Indianapolis Colts have made a few moves. While this was to be expected, their inactivity means the work being done for the 2019 NFL Draft is that much more important.
It was always believed that the Colts do the majority of their roster construction during the draft. The way general manager Chris Ballard operates, they were never expected to be big players in free agency, regardless of how much salary cap space they had.
They added to the wide receiver position with the one-year deal of Devin Funchess while re-signing a handful of their own. Even if the Colts make a few more moves, the 2019 draft is becoming even more vital as they look to build on the foundation of the roster.
Even after the successful 10-6 season in 2018, the Colts have areas to address, and it appears that will happen mostly through the draft.
They are likely looking to add to the pass rush (interior and edge), safety, wide receiver, cornerback and even possibly some offensive line depth. With nine picks in the draft, all of that is easily attainable.
Ballard will place more value at a few more positions than others. The early picks could very well be at edge and interior defensive line, safety and cornerback. However, they still need to add some wide receiver depth and given Ballard’s affinity for trench work, the offensive line is still in play for a mid-round pick.
How the Colts will conduct their draft remains to be seen. Upcoming moves in free agency will impact those plans, but their overall quietness places a great emphasis on coming out of the 2019 draft with a win.
