NEWSLETTER
The Indianapolis Colts finished 9-8 in 2023 but by all accounts had a successful season. Despite a season-ending injury to first-round pick Anthony Richardson and just 7 games from Jonathan Taylor, the Colts battled for an AFC South crown until the final week of the year. They’ve spent the offseason bringing back key players and focusing on the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. Let’s see which positions they’re likely targeting.
Indianapolis Colts Positions to Address in the NFL Draft
The Indianapolis Colts enter the 2024 NFL season with a clear mission, surround their young quarterback, Anthony Richardson, with the talent needed to compete in the AFC South. They were able to compete for a division title last year but have holes that need filling and depth issues a a couple of positions. Here’s a look at the spots they need to address in the NFL Draft.
Cornerback
The Colts’ secondary was middle of the pack statistically in 2023 but upgrading the cornerback position is a non-negotiable priority. They now have a Houston Texans offense that looks more like a Madden Ultimate Team to compete with for an AFC North crown. And the top team in the conference is led by the best quarterback in the NFL Patrick Mahomes. If Indy has any hopes of beating Houston or any of the other top AFC teams, they need to get better on the back end.
Safety
While Julian Blackmon remains a force, the Colts need a reliable partner at safety. As we mentioned when highlighting their need for a cornerback, the Colts’ defensive success will rely on their ability to defend the pass. They struggled mightily when Blackmon got hurt last season so in addition to needing a starter opposite him, Indianapolis would be wise to upgrade their depth pieces here as well.
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Wide Receiver
Michael Pittman Jr. is a star, and Josh Downs can be very effective, but the Colts lack a consistent complementary option at receiver on the outside. Alec Pierce just hasn’t emerged as that second option and teams are still able to roll coverage toward Pittman. Taking a chance on another big-bodied, outside-the-numbers receiver could make sense.
Offensive Line Depth
The Colts’ offensive line boasts a strong starting lineup, but injuries are a constant threat for this bunch. All-world guard Quentin Nelson and Will Fries were the only game 1 starters to start every game for the Colts in 2023 with everyone else missing multiple games. This team wants to lean on the run with A-Rich and Jonathan Taylor in the backfield so offensive line play and health are key. This makes depth at the position that much more important for the Colts and a spot they need to address in the NFL Draft.
Tight End
The Colts have really struggled to find an all-around player at tight end the last couple of seasons. They have plenty of depth in the TE room but none of the options offers elevated skills in every aspect of the position. Finding a player who excels at both run/pass blocking and is a receiving threat could be the last infinity stone for Shane Steichan’s offensive scheme.
Indianapolis Colts Offseason Additions
The Indianapolis Colts have been extremely quiet this offseason, primarily focussing on bringing back in-house talent as opposed to adding via free agency. Check out their most impactful offseason moves below.
Indianapolis Colts 2024 NFL Draft Picks
The Indianapolis Colts have the 15th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft and are one of the few teams still holding all their seven original picks. See where they’re drafting below.
