Colts land instant starter in second-round of ESPN mock draft
Quarterback is the big focus concerning the Indianapolis Colts for the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. Which makes sense, given the team's top-five selection and need at the most important position on the field. Mel Kiper Jr. sees a way in which the Colts come away with the second-best quarterback in the class, even without trading […]
Quarterback is the big focus concerning the Indianapolis Colts for the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. Which makes sense, given the team's top-five selection and need at the most important position on the field.
Mel Kiper Jr. sees a way in which the Colts come away with the second-best quarterback in the class, even without trading up. That would be a dream scenario for Indianapolis. Although, the player Kiper listed is not the most popular name.
Additionally, Kiper has the Colts grabbing an immediate starter in the second-round too. At a position that's not quarterback. The Colts fill a position of need with a high-level talent out of an elite college program with the No. 35 overall selection.
Brian Branch of Alabama is the pick for the Colts in Kiper's second-round. Branch filled multiple roles for the Crimson Tide and is viewed as the best safety in the 2023 draft class.
"Nick Saban used Branch primarily as a slot corner, but Branch is my top-ranked safety in this class," wrote Kiper. "The versatility to play in the nickel or as a center fielder sets him apart."
Branch was an important piece on Nick Saban defenses during his collegiate career. He plays with a ton of physicality and would provide the Colts with a boost on the back end, should he be the pick.
Kiper sees the former Alabama standout carving out an important role on the next level sooner rather than later.
"His 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the combine was below average, but I didn't see him get beat often on tape; I'm not worried about his timed speed," Kiper wrote. "Branch would have the chance to be an instant starter in the Colts' secondary."
The Indianapolis Colts would have to be thrilled if Kiper's first two picks come true. A potential franchise quarterback and a starter in the secondary would go a long way in getting the team back into the postseason.
