Colts Teammates Who Might Clinch Rookie Of The Year Awards

Indianapolis Colts teammates Laiatu Latu and Adonai Mitchell have a chance to sweep the 2024 NFL Rookie of the Year awards.

Laiatu Latu and Adonai Mitchell were the Indianapolis Colts’ first two picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Mitchell has a chance to win Offensive Rookie of the Year, while Latu may win Defensive Rookie of the Year.

The Colts made nine picks in this year’s draft. Any of those newcomers might have successful rookie seasons. Anthony Gould, a fifth-round pick, might be an interesting return specialist. Even Jonah Laulu, a seventh-round draft pick, has the potential to exceed expectations. However, UCLA defensive end Latu and former Texas wide out Mitchell are likely to be the top picks.

These Colts Teammates Could Sweep Rookie of the Year Awards

Teammates Who’ve Swept Rookie of the Year Honors

If Latu and Mitchell win the Rookie of the Year accolades, they would not be the first teammates to do so. Four pairs of teammates in NFL history have achieved this accomplishment.

Mel Farr and Lem Barney (1967 Detroit Lions) became the first running back and cornerback to win the honor. That season, Farr led Detroit in rushing with 860 yards and 317 receiving yards. Meanwhile, Barney topped the league with eleven interceptions.

It took 50 years for the next Rookie of the Year teammates to emerge. In 2017, the New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara and cornerback Marshon Lattimore swept the awards. In 2022, the New York Jets’ wide receiver Garrett Wilson and cornerback Sauce Gardner won. Last season, the Houston Texans’ quarterback C.J. Stroud and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. got the accolade.

Can Laiatu Latu and Adonai Mitchell Get the Job Done?

The Colts drafted Laiatu Latu with the 15th overall pick. He was the first defensive player selected in the draft. The Sacramento native is not anticipated to start right away. He’ll probably play behind starting defensive ends Samson Ebukam and Kwity Paye. However, it would not be shocking if he rapidly gains a starting berth.

Latu, a 6-foot-5, 259-pounder with a crazy 4.64 40-yard sprint time, is a rising star. He has a size and quickness advantage over opposition offensive linemen. Latu recorded 13 sacks last season and is regarded as a skilled pass rusher. He clearly possesses the qualities required to win Defensive Rookie of the Year.

The Colts selected Adonai Mitchell in the second round (52nd overall) in this year’s draft. Despite being a second-round choice, he possesses first-round skill. He’s a freak athlete with outstanding speed and leaping abilities. He’s also an excellent route runner.

During rookie minicamp, Colts head coach Shane Steichen spoke about Mitchell.

“Explosive. You can see the size. You can see the speed – hands, great hands. Even watching him in individual (drills) with Reggie (Wayne) just the way he plucks the ball. He’s a natural pass catcher.”

Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs are considered Indianapolis’ two best receivers. Mitchell will compete with holdover Alec Pierce for the team’s No. 3 wide receiver job. Ultimately, the former Longhorn could emerge as the top player and win the Offensive Rookie of the Year honor. Perhaps Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels have the best chances of earning the honor. But don’t underestimate Mitchell.