In a collection of 2024 NFL mock drafts, experts only pick one wide receiver for Colts
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches at the end of the month, experts are doing everything they can to narrow down and forecast which position the Indianapolis Colts will select in the first round.
The roster now has two major needs: cornerback and safety. However, it would not be surprising if the Colts consider adding an explosive element to the offensive side of the ball to help quarterback Anthony Richardson improve further.
This offseason, both general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen stated that explosiveness is the most important trait they will seek for in the draft.
In a recent compilation of 2024 NFL mock drafts, analysts are leaning more toward the defensive side of the ball for Indianapolis’ initial pick:
Roundup of mock drafts for the Colts heavily leans CB
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
The Colts brought back Kenny Moore and he needs some speedy downfield coverage in the secondary. They might think about adding more offense, but corner fills a key need and is the better value here.
Eric Edholm, NFL.com: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
The Colts could use another corner, and Mitchell’s traits should prevent him from escaping the top 20. JuJu Brents likely will lock up one outside CB job, and Kenny Moore II will continue to man the nickel after re-signing on a three-year, $30 million deal. But Indianapolis still needs more help at the position in a division loaded with young QB talent.
Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
WR could be a target here, for sure, and while the Colts like their young CBs, Quinyon Mitchell will be CB1 on many teams’ board. So, to get him in the middle of the first round would be a steal.
Bleacher Report Scouting Department: WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
The Indianapolis Colts’ affinity for elite athletes has become a running joke. But general manager Chris Ballard makes no bones about what he prefers.
Said Ballard: “I want to make sure we’re getting the best guy with traits. Let’s bet on the traits. Bet on high-end, high-end traits.”
LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr. is the biggest possible bet on traits in this year’s NFL draft class.
Arjun Menon, Pro Football Focus: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
The Colts invested in Kenny Moore II to be their nickel back for the foreseeable future, but they could use an upgrade at outside cornerback. Mitchell can provide Gus Bradley the type of lockdown cornerback play he’s had throughout his coaching career with guys like Jalen Ramsey, Casey Hayward and Richard Sherman. The Colts are currently +110 on DraftKings to take a cornerback
Matt Miller, ESPN: DT Byron Murphy II, Texas
General manager Chris Ballard could look at the receivers (maybe Texas’ Adonai Mitchell) or cornerbacks, but favoring the value of the draft’s top defensive tackle would be typical Ballard. Murphy — a 6-1, 310-pound interior rusher — has elite first-step quickness and unbelievable power. You can see it all over the Texas-Alabama tape from early last season. Lining up mostly as a 5-technique in college, Murphy would likely slide in next to DeForest Buckner in Indy’s four-man front.
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