As the first round of the NFL playoffs kicks into high gear, the Indianapolis Colts have already shifted their focus to the offseason, with the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft taking center stage. Holding the No. 15 overall pick, General Manager Chris Ballard and his team have a heaping mountain of choices to consider as they aim to bolster their roster, fill weaknesses, and weigh impending free agency decisions for the upcoming season.
Here are four preliminary and realistic options the Colts might explore when their turn comes in this spring’s draft:
Kool-Aid McKinstry: Boosting the Secondary
Indianapolis faced challenges in its young secondary this season, prompting consideration for additional talent. Kool-Aid McKinstry emerges as a versatile and savvy coverage player, potentially forming a formidable duo alongside 2023 second-rounder JuJu Brents. McKinstry’s skills could address the team’s defensive needs and provide stability in the secondary.
In early January, Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema projected the Colts to address their secondary by selecting McKinstry in the first round.
“The Colts have played some young cornerbacks this season out of necessity, but none with McKinstry’s talent level,” Sikkema wrote. “The Alabama outside cornerback played more than 1,000 coverage snaps, including 550-plus in press coverage, over the past two seasons, with coverage grades above 80.0 in both years.”
Keon Coleman: Dynamic Wide Receiver
Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. will likely be back in Indianapolis, but nothing is guaranteed until pen is put to paper. Even if Pittman does return long-term, Indy needs to add playmakers for second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson. The Colts might look to fill the void with FSU standout Keon Coleman. Known for making big plays, Coleman’s contributions to a 13-0 Seminole team that clinched the ACC title are noteworthy. Pairing him with Pittman and Josh Downs could create a dynamic young receiving duo for Richardson, the likes of which Indianapolis has not seen since the early Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne days.
Laiatu Latu: Polished Pass-Rusher
Indianapolis had one of the best pass rushing units in team history during the 2023 campaign from a statistical standpoint. Despite this, you can never have too much firepower in the NFL when it comes to disrupting opossing quarterbacks – especially in a divison that is now home to C.J. Stroud, Trevor Lawrence and Will Levis.
Recognized as the most polished pass-rusher among the incoming crop, Laiatu Latu brings an impressive resume with 23.5 combined sacks and 34 tackles for loss over the last two seasons. Described as a pass-rush technician, Latu’s active hands and fluid hips could provide the Colts with a much-needed boost on the defensive front.
Brock Bowers: The Dream Scenario
Indianapolis has more tight ends than they could possible use, yet no single name has managed to stand out as a true difference maker to this point. As previously mentioned, Richardson needs weapons and a young, dynamic tight end fits that mold.
In an ideal scenario, the Colts could secure Brock Bowers, a prospect often compared to 49ers tight end George Kittle. With the ability to play a vital pass-catching role in Shane Steichen’s offense, Bowers could also contribute to opening up running lanes for running back Jonathan Taylor. The Georgia product is touted as a top-10 talent and could be a game-changer for the Colts’ offense.
As the Colts weigh their options, the 2024 NFL Draft promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the team’s future. If Ballard’s selections work out, Indianapolis could be set up for the next decade as an AFC powerhouse. If they do not, well, this isn’t your dad’s AFC South anymore.
I liked your choices for the Colts. You made a valid point for all 4 options. While we desperately need secondary help I really like the TE from Georgia and your point about the WR from FSU would create a nice package of receivers we haven’t had since Marvin, Reggie, Stokely and Clark.
If Bowers is there, it’s a no-brainer. Possibly the best player in the draft. LSU wide out a more consistent choice. Enough DBs to get one in 2nd round.