OhioColt's Offseason Improve the Colts and NFL Draft Edition

[OhioColt]

To start the 2024, season the Colts are projected to have $58.923M in cap space.

 

On of the first things needs to be done is extended/restructure Bucker's contract from 2024 to 2027 (projecting 10M SB, 30M guarantees, 91m (22.75 APY)).  Richardson will go ahead, and project gets his rookie contract extended in 2027 with little hit to our cap space and ideal contract year to extended Bucker as well.  After the extension/restructured contract the cap space increases ~6-10M for 2024 season depending on how much negotiations go and a heavy backend future.  

 

Cap causality to save the Colts an additional 5.92M by releasing TE Mo Alie-Cox.  Plus, an additional 1M saved by releasing Sam Ehlinger.

 

Resign:

WR Michael Pittman Jr. 4-year 90M – To make FA additions this season and to make the Colts immediate playoff contenders can see the Colts opt to save further salary cap implications and Franchise tag Pittman.  Not really sure if it would save cap space for 2024 or add more to it but hoping it saves.

 

SCB Kenny Moore 3-year 24M - The wait and see approach that Ballard stood his ground on has now passed.  Clearly a leader on the team coming off one of his best career seasons playing a versatile position that demands a lot.  Well liked in the locker room and been the leader on and off the field.  2-year 10m APY with a 6M SB. 

 

RB Zack Moss 2-year 9.26m (4.63M APY) – 2M SB

 

SS Julian Blackmon 3 year 22.5m with 9M SB with 5M guaranteed.  Injury history and like most of the fence with resigning Blackmon. Drop-off in secondary during Blackmon’s absence was felt.  Not sure Cross has shown enough.  If you have read this far the resigning of both Moss and Blackmon are for a reason in free agency.

 

Edge Tyquan Lewis – Between toe and knee injuries Lewis finally flashed the potential we had high hopes for when we drafted him.  2-year 9.1M (4.55M APY) with 2M SB.

 

Grover Stewart – 3-year 32M, 6M SB, 6M guarantees.  I would have D.J. Reader but projected Reader to make around 17M APY but proved too costly against the cap.

 

FA Signings:

The Utah pipeline gets stronger for the Colts.  Utah reunion of sorts with Blackmon and Zack Moss also same class.  Would have loved adding LCB Jaylon Johnson (Bears) also played together at Utah.  Instead, the Colts add QB Tyler Huntley (Ravens) 1-year 3.75m – Minshew type deal from 2023 seen as a better fit.  1.75M SB, 1.75M guarantees.  Exploiting Utah pipelines bringing in Huntley who pairs well with Richardson much like in Baltimore with Jackson's running capabilities. 

 

Edge Carl Lawson (NY Jets) – PFF projecting 1-year 3.5m prove-it deal.  Lawson is a beast when healthy as a pass-rushing specialist.

 

RDT DaQuan Jones (Bills) – 32 years old and played well for the Bills and would be a nice insurance backup role behind Stewart. Taven Bryan got 3.5m last season and been nowhere the player Jones has.  The Bills missed DaQuan when he got hurt in London and told him as much per GM Brandon Beane.  Beane said “He’s earned the right to test his market and see what it looks like.  But we would be a fool not to entertain bringing him back.”  With the salary cap restraints, the Bills have, any team offering Jones a multi-year deal with a good amount of guaranteed money would price Buffalo out of the market to resign Jones. We saw how bad our IDL was when Stewart was out of the lineup and Jones if he continues his performance was better than Stewart as a pass-rusher while barely trailing Stewart in run-defense.  2-year 10.25m with 6M SB and 4M guaranteed. 

 

LDT Maurice Hurst (Browns) – Flashed potential but injury history cause for concern.  Latest was a pectoral injury, 2021 calf injury, missed entire 2022 season with a torn biceps suffered in training camp.  Solid backup to Buckner as Adebawore struggled in his rookie season.  Hurst has been impressive in both run-pass grades plus earned high marks in pass-rush win rate 14.1%. 3-year 16.8 deal with 6M SB and 3M guaranteed.

 

P Tommy Townsend (Chiefs) – replaces Rigoberto Sanchez for similar money.  Townsend is expected to break the bank for Punters and command top dollar.  An All-Pro in 2022 and ranks in the top 10 in the NFL.  In 2021 finished second in net yards per punt and 1st in 2022.  

 

SWR Parris Campbell (NY Giants) 1-year 3.5M.  The Colts are dangerously thin at the receiver position.  Campbell a former Colt provides depth behind Downs but adds dimension of inside/out receiver.  Just seen Oct 27, 2023, article by Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox saying the Colts would be wise to bring back Campbell.  

 

NFL Draft:

Round 1 - OC Jackson Powers-Johnson (Oregon) – Much like Ryan Kelly when he was drafted in R1P18 the Colts that the best OC in years early on Day 1.  Powers-Johnson has proven himself at both guard and center at Senior Bowl practices this week.  Project a camp battle with Fries as immediate starter at RG and then move to Center full-time in Kelly’s absence.  Seattle who picks immediately behind us is also interested in upgrading their OL along with the Dolphins currently at P21.

 

Round 2 - WR-Z Roman Wilson (Michigan) – We mentioned how thin at the receiver position the Colts are.  This week at the Senior Bowl almost every DB has not been able to cover Wilson.  Alec Pierce’s time with the Colts may very well hinder on this year or become the WR3 on the team.  If we draft Wilson, would Pierce end up getting moved much like former Colt WR Phillip Dorsett? 

 

Round 3

OL Dominick Puni (Kansas) – The Colts lack depth at both LT and LG spots and Puni has been proving himself at the Senior Bowl practices he could be a future starter with coaching.  Raimann already 25 years’ old when we drafted him and will be 27 to start off the 2024 season.  Biggest issue I've worried about has always been the person replacing Quenton Nelson.  

 

Round 4

FS Jaylin Simpson (Auburn) - 2023 college football midseason all-America First Team.  Mid-year Simpson’s 91.3 coverage grade lead all safeties in college football.  His 4 INTs is tied for the most among FBS safeties.  Simpson at the time only surrendered just six catches for 32 yards.  He went from a rotational CB the past couple of seasons to one of the top playmaking FS at mid-season.  

 

Round 5

CB Cam Heart (ND) – 6’2” 204 pounds with 32 5/8” arms.  Until this week wasn't even on my draft board but has checked all the boxes so far during Senior Bowl check-in and practice sessions. 

 

Option B SCB Sebastian Castro (Iowa) – hybrid LB/SAF role.  2023 college football midseason all-America Second Team-Flex D.  After 9 weeks Castro leads all CBs with a 90.2 PFF grade allowing only a 35.8 passer rating when targeted.  PFF defense grade 91.6, run defense grade 87.0, and a coverage grade of 91.6.   Last year it was Illinois' DBs and this year it was Iowa's trio of backs that I am stoked about.

 

Round 6

TE Brevyn Spann-Ford (Minnesota) – ran the 2nd fastest of any TE on the National roster 16.32 MPH.  In 2022 he was the best run-blocking TE in the class.  His 82.5 run-blocking grade that year led all Power Five tight ends, while his 14 big-time blocks were four more than any other tight end in the country. Spann-Ford is also one of the best receivers at the position, recording 2.22 yards per route run in 2022 — the fifth-best mark among FBS tight ends.  However, poor QB and offensive play this season didn’t help increase his draft stock but a strong showing this week at the Senior Bowl just might.  

 

Round 7

QB Austin Reed (Western Kentucky) – Sam Ehlinger will be a FA in 2024 but cutting him will gain the Colts an additional million dollars.

 

Option B - QB Carter Bradley (S. Alabama) – Bradley been turning heads in practice at the Senior Bowl.  At times he has looked better than both Nix and Penix.  The name Bradley should sound familiar as his father is Gus, our Colts DC.  

 

Recap:

On defense the defense improves their pass-rush while adding capable run-stoppers in DaQuan and Maurice.  Much like the Raven's had planned for a similar quarterback play style the Colts added Huntley whom I also saw other external writers mentioned he would be an ideal fit with the Colts and using our Utah connections seems very possible.  I still think our wide receiver group is thin and hopefully we can find an UDFA on the cheap to add.  Our tight-end group still in-flux with some unknowns if you will be it injuries or legal ramifications.  Still lacking at linebacker and cornerback positions.   Still hoping Daniel Scott can prove to be a decent backup at FS.  

 

Time to clock out enjoy your weekend all.

 

[NewColtsFan]

4 hours ago, OhioColt said:

To start the 2024, season the Colts are projected to have $58.923M in cap space.

 

On of the first things needs to be done is extended/restructure Bucker's contract from 2024 to 2027 (projecting 10M SB, 30M guarantees, 91m (22.75 APY)).  Richardson will go ahead, and project gets his rookie contract extended in 2027 with little hit to our cap space and ideal contract year to extended Bucker as well.  After the extension/restructured contract the cap space increases ~6-10M for 2024 season depending on how much negotiations go and a heavy backend future.  

 

Cap causality to save the Colts an additional 5.92M by releasing TE Mo Alie-Cox.  Plus, an additional 1M saved by releasing Sam Ehlinger.

 

Resign:

WR Michael Pittman Jr. 4-year 90M – To make FA additions this season and to make the Colts immediate playoff contenders can see the Colts opt to save further salary cap implications and Franchise tag Pittman.  Not really sure if it would save cap space for 2024 or add more to it but hoping it saves.

 

SCB Kenny Moore 3-year 24M - The wait and see approach that Ballard stood his ground on has now passed.  Clearly a leader on the team coming off one of his best career seasons playing a versatile position that demands a lot.  Well liked in the locker room and been the leader on and off the field.  2-year 10m APY with a 6M SB. 

 

RB Zack Moss 2-year 9.26m (4.63M APY) – 2M SB

 

SS Julian Blackmon 3 year 22.5m with 9M SB with 5M guaranteed.  Injury history and like most of the fence with resigning Blackmon. Drop-off in secondary during Blackmon’s absence was felt.  Not sure Cross has shown enough.  If you have read this far the resigning of both Moss and Blackmon are for a reason in free agency.

 

Edge Tyquan Lewis – Between toe and knee injuries Lewis finally flashed the potential we had high hopes for when we drafted him.  2-year 9.1M (4.55M APY) with 2M SB.

 

Grover Stewart – 3-year 32M, 6M SB, 6M guarantees.  I would have D.J. Reader but projected Reader to make around 17M APY but proved too costly against the cap.

 

FA Signings:

The Utah pipeline gets stronger for the Colts.  Utah reunion of sorts with Blackmon and Zack Moss also same class.  Would have loved adding LCB Jaylon Johnson (Bears) also played together at Utah.  Instead, the Colts add QB Tyler Huntley (Ravens) 1-year 3.75m – Minshew type deal from 2023 seen as a better fit.  1.75M SB, 1.75M guarantees.  Exploiting Utah pipelines bringing in Huntley who pairs well with Richardson much like in Baltimore with Jackson's running capabilities. 

 

Edge Carl Lawson (NY Jets) – PFF projecting 1-year 3.5m prove-it deal.  Lawson is a beast when healthy as a pass-rushing specialist.

 

RDT DaQuan Jones (Bills) – 32 years old and played well for the Bills and would be a nice insurance backup role behind Stewart. Taven Bryan got 3.5m last season and been nowhere the player Jones has.  The Bills missed DaQuan when he got hurt in London and told him as much per GM Brandon Beane.  Beane said “He’s earned the right to test his market and see what it looks like.  But we would be a fool not to entertain bringing him back.”  With the salary cap restraints, the Bills have, any team offering Jones a multi-year deal with a good amount of guaranteed money would price Buffalo out of the market to resign Jones. We saw how bad our IDL was when Stewart was out of the lineup and Jones if he continues his performance was better than Stewart as a pass-rusher while barely trailing Stewart in run-defense.  2-year 10.25m with 6M SB and 4M guaranteed. 

 

LDT Maurice Hurst (Browns) – Flashed potential but injury history cause for concern.  Latest was a pectoral injury, 2021 calf injury, missed entire 2022 season with a torn biceps suffered in training camp.  Solid backup to Buckner as Adebawore struggled in his rookie season.  Hurst has been impressive in both run-pass grades plus earned high marks in pass-rush win rate 14.1%. 3-year 16.8 deal with 6M SB and 3M guaranteed.

 

P Tommy Townsend (Chiefs) – replaces Rigoberto Sanchez for similar money.  Townsend is expected to break the bank for Punters and command top dollar.  An All-Pro in 2022 and ranks in the top 10 in the NFL.  In 2021 finished second in net yards per punt and 1st in 2022.  

 

SWR Parris Campbell (NY Giants) 1-year 3.5M.  The Colts are dangerously thin at the receiver position.  Campbell a former Colt provides depth behind Downs but adds dimension of inside/out receiver.  Just seen Oct 27, 2023, article by Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox saying the Colts would be wise to bring back Campbell.  

 

NFL Draft:

Round 1 - OC Jackson Powers-Johnson (Oregon) – Much like Ryan Kelly when he was drafted in R1P18 the Colts that the best OC in years early on Day 1.  Powers-Johnson has proven himself at both guard and center at Senior Bowl practices this week.  Project a camp battle with Fries as immediate starter at RG and then move to Center full-time in Kelly’s absence.  Seattle who picks immediately behind us is also interested in upgrading their OL along with the Dolphins currently at P21.

 

Round 2 - WR-Z Roman Wilson (Michigan) – We mentioned how thin at the receiver position the Colts are.  This week at the Senior Bowl almost every DB has not been able to cover Wilson.  Alec Pierce’s time with the Colts may very well hinder on this year or become the WR3 on the team.  If we draft Wilson, would Pierce end up getting moved much like former Colt WR Phillip Dorsett? 

 

Round 3

OL Dominick Puni (Kansas) – The Colts lack depth at both LT and LG spots and Puni has been proving himself at the Senior Bowl practices he could be a future starter with coaching.  Raimann already 25 years’ old when we drafted him and will be 27 to start off the 2024 season.  Biggest issue I've worried about has always been the person replacing Quenton Nelson.  

 

Round 4

FS Jaylin Simpson (Auburn) - 2023 college football midseason all-America First Team.  Mid-year Simpson’s 91.3 coverage grade lead all safeties in college football.  His 4 INTs is tied for the most among FBS safeties.  Simpson at the time only surrendered just six catches for 32 yards.  He went from a rotational CB the past couple of seasons to one of the top playmaking FS at mid-season.  

 

Round 5

CB Cam Heart (ND) – 6’2” 204 pounds with 32 5/8” arms.  Until this week wasn't even on my draft board but has checked all the boxes so far during Senior Bowl check-in and practice sessions. 

 

Option B SCB Sebastian Castro (Iowa) – hybrid LB/SAF role.  2023 college football midseason all-America Second Team-Flex D.  After 9 weeks Castro leads all CBs with a 90.2 PFF grade allowing only a 35.8 passer rating when targeted.  PFF defense grade 91.6, run defense grade 87.0, and a coverage grade of 91.6.   Last year it was Illinois' DBs and this year it was Iowa's trio of backs that I am stoked about.

 

Round 6

TE Brevyn Spann-Ford (Minnesota) – ran the 2nd fastest of any TE on the National roster 16.32 MPH.  In 2022 he was the best run-blocking TE in the class.  His 82.5 run-blocking grade that year led all Power Five tight ends, while his 14 big-time blocks were four more than any other tight end in the country. Spann-Ford is also one of the best receivers at the position, recording 2.22 yards per route run in 2022 — the fifth-best mark among FBS tight ends.  However, poor QB and offensive play this season didn’t help increase his draft stock but a strong showing this week at the Senior Bowl just might.  

 

Round 7

QB Austin Reed (Western Kentucky) – Sam Ehlinger will be a FA in 2024 but cutting him will gain the Colts an additional million dollars.

 

Option B - QB Carter Bradley (S. Alabama) – Bradley been turning heads in practice at the Senior Bowl.  At times he has looked better than both Nix and Penix.  The name Bradley should sound familiar as his father is Gus, our Colts DC.  

 

Recap:

On defense the defense improves their pass-rush while adding capable run-stoppers in DaQuan and Maurice.  Much like the Raven's had planned for a similar quarterback play style the Colts added Huntley whom I also saw other external writers mentioned he would be an ideal fit with the Colts and using our Utah connections seems very possible.  I still think our wide receiver group is thin and hopefully we can find an UDFA on the cheap to add.  Our tight-end group still in-flux with some unknowns if you will be it injuries or legal ramifications.  Still lacking at linebacker and cornerback positions.   Still hoping Daniel Scott can prove to be a decent backup at FS.  

 

Time to clock out enjoy your weekend all.

 

Am I understanding you correctly?   You think the Colts are cutting Sam Ehlinger?   After only two years with the Colts?   He can still stay for two more years.  
 

Also,  if you’re cutting a player on his rookie contract, he still has to be replaced, so in effect, you’re saving zero dollars. 

[2006Coltsbestever]

30 minutes ago, NewColtsFan said:

Am I understanding you correctly?   You think the Colts are cutting Sam Ehlinger?   After only two years with the Colts?   He can still stay for two more years.  
 

Also,  if you’re cutting a player on his rookie contract, he still has to be replaced, so in effect, you’re saving zero dollars. 

Sam has actually played 3 seasons now (2021-2023), doesn't seem like it as time flies. Having said that, I doubt we cut him as he has 1 year left on his contract on a cheap contract. He will be 3rd string in 2024, then won't be back is my guess.

[tweezy32]

No olineman with the 1st pick plz

[NewColtsFan]

4 minutes ago, 2006Coltsbestever said:

Sam has actually played 3 seasons now (2021-2023), doesn't seem like it as time flies. Having said that, I doubt we cut him as he has 1 year left on his contract on a cheap contract. He will be 3rd string in 2024, then won't be back is my guess.

Actually, you are correct.   I got confused because he didn’t play this year, so he has no stats.   Thanks for the correction
 

That said, the poster I was responding to thinks the Colts are cutting him to “save a million dollars.”   This is false.   His position still has to be filled, so the new QB3 has a salary that replaces Sam’s.    That was my concern.   
 

I don’t pretend to know what Steichen thinks of guys like Sam or Alec Pierce?  If they get traded or cut, then we’ll know.  But if they’re still in the roster next season, we’ll also have a good idea.  

[Indeee]

Am I understanding this whole thing correctly? I don't think I am as this is the WORST off-season assessment/guess I think I have ever been witnessed to.. 

 

[John Hammonds]

I have no problems with the people you want to re-sign, nor with the free agents you want to bring in.

 

My only real issue is drafting an OC in the first round, when we could have an opportunity to get a dynamic skill position player.  Especially when there are OC's later in the draft (Zach Frazier - WV; Sedric Van Pran - Georgia; Drake Nugent - Michigan) that can also sit behind Kelly a year or two, and become a starter.

[Shive]

I'm really on the fence about the first pick. On one hand, I love JPJ and wanted to take him in the 2nd for the same reasons you gave. After the Senior Bowl week, there's no way he lasts until our pick in the 2nd. I think it would really have to depend on who was left on the board at our pick. There's some really good skill position players that will most likely be available, but I also think there's some that will fall to the 2nd. With this draft being very top-heavy, I wouldn't be opposed to trading back up into the bottom of the 1st or the top of the 2nd if the right guys are there.

 

If JPJ is the pick, he immediately challenges Fries at RG and potentially improves the play at that position. If Kelly has another injury-filled season (especially another concussion), he may have to hang it up, or the team could choose to move on. I can't help but remember the god-awful C play we had before Kelly got here and I definitely don't want to re-live that. It's not a flashy move, but it's a smart one from a long-term perspective.

[MikeCurtis]

On 2/2/2024 at 5:33 AM, OhioColt said:

To start the 2024, season the Colts are projected to have $58.923M in cap space.

 

On of the first things needs to be done is extended/restructure Bucker's contract from 2024 to 2027 (projecting 10M SB, 30M guarantees, 91m (22.75 APY)).  Richardson will go ahead, and project gets his rookie contract extended in 2027 with little hit to our cap space and ideal contract year to extended Bucker as well.  After the extension/restructured contract the cap space increases ~6-10M for 2024 season depending on how much negotiations go and a heavy backend future.  

 

Cap causality to save the Colts an additional 5.92M by releasing TE Mo Alie-Cox.  Plus, an additional 1M saved by releasing Sam Ehlinger.

 

Resign:

WR Michael Pittman Jr. 4-year 90M – To make FA additions this season and to make the Colts immediate playoff contenders can see the Colts opt to save further salary cap implications and Franchise tag Pittman.  Not really sure if it would save cap space for 2024 or add more to it but hoping it saves.

 

SCB Kenny Moore 3-year 24M - The wait and see approach that Ballard stood his ground on has now passed.  Clearly a leader on the team coming off one of his best career seasons playing a versatile position that demands a lot.  Well liked in the locker room and been the leader on and off the field.  2-year 10m APY with a 6M SB. 

 

RB Zack Moss 2-year 9.26m (4.63M APY) – 2M SB

 

SS Julian Blackmon 3 year 22.5m with 9M SB with 5M guaranteed.  Injury history and like most of the fence with resigning Blackmon. Drop-off in secondary during Blackmon’s absence was felt.  Not sure Cross has shown enough.  If you have read this far the resigning of both Moss and Blackmon are for a reason in free agency.

 

Edge Tyquan Lewis – Between toe and knee injuries Lewis finally flashed the potential we had high hopes for when we drafted him.  2-year 9.1M (4.55M APY) with 2M SB.

 

Grover Stewart – 3-year 32M, 6M SB, 6M guarantees.  I would have D.J. Reader but projected Reader to make around 17M APY but proved too costly against the cap.

 

FA Signings:

The Utah pipeline gets stronger for the Colts.  Utah reunion of sorts with Blackmon and Zack Moss also same class.  Would have loved adding LCB Jaylon Johnson (Bears) also played together at Utah.  Instead, the Colts add QB Tyler Huntley (Ravens) 1-year 3.75m – Minshew type deal from 2023 seen as a better fit.  1.75M SB, 1.75M guarantees.  Exploiting Utah pipelines bringing in Huntley who pairs well with Richardson much like in Baltimore with Jackson's running capabilities. 

 

Edge Carl Lawson (NY Jets) – PFF projecting 1-year 3.5m prove-it deal.  Lawson is a beast when healthy as a pass-rushing specialist.

 

RDT DaQuan Jones (Bills) – 32 years old and played well for the Bills and would be a nice insurance backup role behind Stewart. Taven Bryan got 3.5m last season and been nowhere the player Jones has.  The Bills missed DaQuan when he got hurt in London and told him as much per GM Brandon Beane.  Beane said “He’s earned the right to test his market and see what it looks like.  But we would be a fool not to entertain bringing him back.”  With the salary cap restraints, the Bills have, any team offering Jones a multi-year deal with a good amount of guaranteed money would price Buffalo out of the market to resign Jones. We saw how bad our IDL was when Stewart was out of the lineup and Jones if he continues his performance was better than Stewart as a pass-rusher while barely trailing Stewart in run-defense.  2-year 10.25m with 6M SB and 4M guaranteed. 

 

LDT Maurice Hurst (Browns) – Flashed potential but injury history cause for concern.  Latest was a pectoral injury, 2021 calf injury, missed entire 2022 season with a torn biceps suffered in training camp.  Solid backup to Buckner as Adebawore struggled in his rookie season.  Hurst has been impressive in both run-pass grades plus earned high marks in pass-rush win rate 14.1%. 3-year 16.8 deal with 6M SB and 3M guaranteed.

 

P Tommy Townsend (Chiefs) – replaces Rigoberto Sanchez for similar money.  Townsend is expected to break the bank for Punters and command top dollar.  An All-Pro in 2022 and ranks in the top 10 in the NFL.  In 2021 finished second in net yards per punt and 1st in 2022.  

 

SWR Parris Campbell (NY Giants) 1-year 3.5M.  The Colts are dangerously thin at the receiver position.  Campbell a former Colt provides depth behind Downs but adds dimension of inside/out receiver.  Just seen Oct 27, 2023, article by Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox saying the Colts would be wise to bring back Campbell.  

 

NFL Draft:

Round 1 - OC Jackson Powers-Johnson (Oregon) – Much like Ryan Kelly when he was drafted in R1P18 the Colts that the best OC in years early on Day 1.  Powers-Johnson has proven himself at both guard and center at Senior Bowl practices this week.  Project a camp battle with Fries as immediate starter at RG and then move to Center full-time in Kelly’s absence.  Seattle who picks immediately behind us is also interested in upgrading their OL along with the Dolphins currently at P21.

 

Round 2 - WR-Z Roman Wilson (Michigan) – We mentioned how thin at the receiver position the Colts are.  This week at the Senior Bowl almost every DB has not been able to cover Wilson.  Alec Pierce’s time with the Colts may very well hinder on this year or become the WR3 on the team.  If we draft Wilson, would Pierce end up getting moved much like former Colt WR Phillip Dorsett? 

 

Round 3

OL Dominick Puni (Kansas) – The Colts lack depth at both LT and LG spots and Puni has been proving himself at the Senior Bowl practices he could be a future starter with coaching.  Raimann already 25 years’ old when we drafted him and will be 27 to start off the 2024 season.  Biggest issue I've worried about has always been the person replacing Quenton Nelson.  

 

Round 4

FS Jaylin Simpson (Auburn) - 2023 college football midseason all-America First Team.  Mid-year Simpson’s 91.3 coverage grade lead all safeties in college football.  His 4 INTs is tied for the most among FBS safeties.  Simpson at the time only surrendered just six catches for 32 yards.  He went from a rotational CB the past couple of seasons to one of the top playmaking FS at mid-season.  

 

Round 5

CB Cam Heart (ND) – 6’2” 204 pounds with 32 5/8” arms.  Until this week wasn't even on my draft board but has checked all the boxes so far during Senior Bowl check-in and practice sessions. 

 

Option B SCB Sebastian Castro (Iowa) – hybrid LB/SAF role.  2023 college football midseason all-America Second Team-Flex D.  After 9 weeks Castro leads all CBs with a 90.2 PFF grade allowing only a 35.8 passer rating when targeted.  PFF defense grade 91.6, run defense grade 87.0, and a coverage grade of 91.6.   Last year it was Illinois' DBs and this year it was Iowa's trio of backs that I am stoked about.

 

Round 6

TE Brevyn Spann-Ford (Minnesota) – ran the 2nd fastest of any TE on the National roster 16.32 MPH.  In 2022 he was the best run-blocking TE in the class.  His 82.5 run-blocking grade that year led all Power Five tight ends, while his 14 big-time blocks were four more than any other tight end in the country. Spann-Ford is also one of the best receivers at the position, recording 2.22 yards per route run in 2022 — the fifth-best mark among FBS tight ends.  However, poor QB and offensive play this season didn’t help increase his draft stock but a strong showing this week at the Senior Bowl just might.  

 

Round 7

QB Austin Reed (Western Kentucky) – Sam Ehlinger will be a FA in 2024 but cutting him will gain the Colts an additional million dollars.

 

Option B - QB Carter Bradley (S. Alabama) – Bradley been turning heads in practice at the Senior Bowl.  At times he has looked better than both Nix and Penix.  The name Bradley should sound familiar as his father is Gus, our Colts DC.  

 

Recap:

On defense the defense improves their pass-rush while adding capable run-stoppers in DaQuan and Maurice.  Much like the Raven's had planned for a similar quarterback play style the Colts added Huntley whom I also saw other external writers mentioned he would be an ideal fit with the Colts and using our Utah connections seems very possible.  I still think our wide receiver group is thin and hopefully we can find an UDFA on the cheap to add.  Our tight-end group still in-flux with some unknowns if you will be it injuries or legal ramifications.  Still lacking at linebacker and cornerback positions.   Still hoping Daniel Scott can prove to be a decent backup at FS.  

 

Time to clock out enjoy your weekend all.

 

Thanks for sharing

 

These are some unique approaches to fill the few holes on this team

 

Agree on most of your resigns

 

But.... respectfully,

 

From my perspective the biggest Colts needs are -( Top Priorities in  order)

 

1) Pass rush improvement - BIG Need  

2) WR help - Speedy separation guy

3) Play making FS

4) CB help 

5) LB help

 

 

Lets compare your approach to my list (AGAIN..... I am a nobody, that has an opinion, that is wrong much   )

1) Pass rush improvement - BIG Need    

The Jets writers are very unhappy with the performance of Carl Lawson  - I dont think he is the answer here

2) WR help - Speedy separation guy

Roman had a great practices this week, but showed little during year. He would have to wow me at combine

3) Play making FS

This is such a tremendous hole, I would not wait until round 4 to address.

4) CB help 

Not addressed

5) LB help

Not addressed

 

 

 

[OhioColt]

On 2/2/2024 at 5:02 PM, Shive said:

I'm really on the fence about the first pick. On one hand, I love JPJ and wanted to take him in the 2nd for the same reasons you gave. After the Senior Bowl week, there's no way he lasts until our pick in the 2nd. I think it would really have to depend on who was left on the board at our pick. There's some really good skill position players that will most likely be available, but I also think there's some that will fall to the 2nd. With this draft being very top-heavy, I wouldn't be opposed to trading back up into the bottom of the 1st or the top of the 2nd if the right guys are there.

 

If JPJ is the pick, he immediately challenges Fries at RG and potentially improves the play at that position. If Kelly has another injury-filled season (especially another concussion), he may have to hang it up, or the team could choose to move on. I can't help but remember the god-awful C play we had before Kelly got here and I definitely don't want to re-live that. It's not a flashy move, but it's a smart one from a long-term perspective.

Really same feelings here as well with JPJ.  Had a R2 on him target for sure but his draft stock does seem to be rising.  Already seeing his name mentioned at P16+ and the Colts are right there as well at P15.  Not flashy but does fill a need, some debate from immediate to short-term future.  An improvement over Fries, I would like to think so and given JPJ's short history at Center might work for us as well and still get reps and learn from one of the league's best in Kelly.  Cap space-wise wonder if the Colts could pull of a mid-season trade for an upcoming DB or WR if JPJ looks legitimately like the future.  

 

On 2/3/2024 at 12:19 PM, MikeCurtis said:

Thanks for sharing

 

1) Pass rush improvement - BIG Need  

2) WR help - Speedy separation guy

3) Play making FS

4) CB help 

5) LB help

 

Lets compare your approach to my list (AGAIN..... I am a nobody, that has an opinion, that is wrong much   )

1) Pass rush improvement - BIG Need    

The Jets writers are very unhappy with the performance of Carl Lawson  - I dont think he is the answer here

2) WR help - Speedy separation guy

Roman had a great practices this week, but showed little during year. He would have to wow me at combine

3) Play making FS

This is such a tremendous hole, I would not wait until round 4 to address.

4) CB help 

Not addressed

5) LB help

Not addressed

Tried to listen to Mike here as well from previous posts and have similar concerns that I tried to address.

 

1) Key additions on DL with proven pass-rushing specialist done

 

2) Speedy WR - Colts already have 3 starting WR's.  Debate all we want and really don't see R1 as the need for a WR.  TBD but again Colts do lack depth which is a major issue.  Adding Roman Wilson and bringing back Parris Campbell fills the major void. 

 

3) Starting FS that can make plays - Love to have the cap space room to add Xavier McKinney but not at the ~10.5M APY to even a Jessie Bates type contract closer to ~16.5M to 17.5M range. 

 

Jaylin Simpson in R4 honestly isn't a stretch and do feel would be a steal this late in the draft.  See also Talanoa Hufanga (49ers) was a R5 pick was tied for 5th best safety November 2, 2023, article Fox Sports.  Micah Hyde was a R5 pick that's had a productive career.  Value can be found in various rounds and Simpson might have that appeal as well.  Kind of funny tho think back to another FS draft prospect Cole Bishop also from Utah and the Utah connections tie-in made as another late draft board candidate. 

 

4) CB help.  I agree and R1 we really could/should address this issue and didn't have any FA addition to address.  If not this year, next year, if you were reading between the lines, might have the potential to add Bear's Jaylon Johnson, expecting him to get franchised.  Cam Heart (ND) could wind up surprising teams and history of the draft also supports players drafted on Day 3 can produce and become starters.

 

5) LB Help - sadly not address and did look at final round. R5 ILB Maema Njongmeta (Wisconsin) on my draft board and reminds me of Cincinnati's Ivan Pace Jr. who went UDFA and have a very successful rookie season.  Hard call to make with the uncertainty of our TE room.  Obviously let MAC go to free up cap space and not sure about late legal ramifications from the other player.   

 

FA options had were:

 

LB Josey Jewell (Broncos) - decent run-defense and coverage grades but low 3.6% forced incompletion rate with a 6.0% run-stop rate.  Figured 2-year 15.3M (7.7M APY)

 

LB Bobby Wagner (Seahawks) - even at 34 years old he is still a tackling machine and can shed blockers.  Lost some athletic ability in space but will still be an upgrade over Franklin. 1-year 4m fully guaranteed.  7.6m

 

ILB Anthony Walker Jr. (Browns) – Battled injuries with the Browns and been giving multiple 1-year deal.  Unlike after the 2020 the Colts should have available cap space to resign Walker to a multi-year prove it deal where he flourished when fully healthy.  Franklin is set to be a FA next season.

 

IF we have cap space wouldn't mind these options as well.  Once you actually break down on your own the financials and adding new players to the mix things do get more complicated than simply reading something and hand-picking players on a wish list system.  If you want a more realistic approach challenge your own selves, see what different scenarios you come up with while trying to address as many issues as you can and address as many others can't in free agency.  Alway nice to be a dreamer but got to give it up for the Colts real organization and draft selection committee for the real hard work making the Club future contenders. 

 

 

[chad72]

Yes, Roman Wilson was winning at the Senior Bowl vs college prospects. At the NFL level, my concern for him is his catch radius. His short cone drill is outstanding, and he would be a terrific guy in the slot, a more explosive version of Josh Downs but as an outside guy that we want most that can win against bigger CBs that jam, I am not 100% sure. YAC and run blocking haven't been demonstrated much in college, IMO.

[OhioColt]

14 hours ago, chad72 said:

Yes, Roman Wilson was winning at the Senior Bowl vs college prospects. At the NFL level, my concern for him is his catch radius. His short cone drill is outstanding, and he would be a terrific guy in the slot, a more explosive version of Josh Downs but as an outside guy that we want most that can win against bigger CBs that jam, I am not 100% sure. YAC and run blocking haven't been demonstrated much in college, IMO.

Seeing more breakdown after the Senior Bowl saying Roman Wilson best fit would be a slot receiver.  Clearly, something we don't need as a starter with Josh Downs.

 

Salary Cap notwithstanding as I have a poor track record of greatly undervaluing free agents throughout the years.  Going to take someone wiser and more knowledgeable to come up with closer contract values that I have been able to do in the past. 

 

FA to me dream additions, ignoring salary cap restrictions, and redoing this after the Senior Bowl:

• QB Tyler Huntley (Ravens) - could of drafted Michael Pratt (Tulane) whom was the AAC Offensive Player of the Year 2022 and Pratt finished out the 2021 season in passing efficiency behind only Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Bryce Young of Alabama.
• WR-X Noah Brown (Texans) - currently on IR but had a decent season - ~6M APY? Brown had a solid YAC of 4.8 with a 67.6 overall receiving grade. - Franchise Pittman is the expectations but no guarantee will resign next season - we hope obviously. 
• DT Maurice Hurst (Browns) - Adds value behind Buckner and proven in both run-passing game.
• DT DJ Reader (Bengals) - Colts move on from Grover Stewart and replace him with one of the few that grade out better than him.  Reader excels in tackling, passing and rushing.
• DT DaQuan Jones (Bills) - Lesson learned in Stewart's absence, Jones nearing retirement is still an upgrade and may start depending on Reader's recovery timetable. 
• Edge Carl Lawson (NY Jets) - one-year prove it deal but when healthy excels as a rush-specialist on passing down.  Pairing him again with former teammate in Reader where they dominated together rushing the passer.  Reminder both Paye and Odeyingbo will be free agents next season and am projecting only one will get resigned.   Buckner and Reader will command a lot of double teams which should help free up our edge rusher.  Team will have to keep an RB/TE or both to stop our pass rush inside/out. 
• FS Xavier McKinney - perfect fit in the Colts defense

Updated Draft:

Round 1) OC Jackson Powers-Johnson (Oregon) - going to stick with this pick and move JPJ to RG to start. 

 

Round 2) CB Khyree Jackson (Oregon) – had a decent Senior Bowl Week and is best in Zone Coverage. Jackson’s got excellent height we covet at 6’3” with great weight at 203 pounds, with ideal arms 32” and the span of 78” and good 4.44s-Forty.  Only knock have is small hands measured at 8 7/8”.  

 

Round 3) MLB Junior Colson (Michigan) – Impressive measurables with an excellent vertical 37, 4.58s-forty, great height 6’3”, weight 247 pounds and 4.22 shuttle. Excellent tackler.  Looking at the Colts roster, the linebackers' contracts all expire next offseason.  Personally, I like what Speed and Franklin have done and even Olubi hope builds on last season.  Stuard may be the odd man out with McGrone on the bubble.

 

Round 4) WLB Cedric Gray (UNC) – 2nd team All-American.  Last year made first contact on a ball carrier 122 times, 15 more than next closest defender in college football.  Most of anyone since 2014.  Strong history of FF and FR plus INTs.  A three-year team captain. Good wingspan 78 1/8 and average arms 32 4/8.

 

Round 5) WR-SL Malik Washington (Virginia) - 2023 earned college football midseason all-America Second Team.  All-American accolades for 2023 season.  Final 2023 offense grade of 91.1 is second best with a 92.3 receiving grade and 54.0 run grade.   WR’s DJ Montgomery (RFA), Ethan Fernea (ERFA), Juwann Winfree, Tyrie Cleveland, Terrell Bynum (ERFA), and Ashton Dulin are all 2025 FAs.

 

Round 6) OT Delmar Glaze (Maryland) – Held his ground throughout the Senior Bowl and has the potential as a plug-play starter at tackle with experience at guard.  Impressive measurables with 34 4/8 arms, 323 pounds with 82” wingspan.

 

Round 7) RB Rasheen Ali (Marshall) - Ali had a solid week showing three-down capabilities but suffered a biceps injury that will require surgery.  Much like Tyler Goodson known as a good route runner and capable pass-catching option.  Ali just seems to fit the mold with the Colts much like Hines before him and Goodson.