Indianapolis Colts land help on both sides of the ball in a new mock draft

The Indianapolis Colts have some big decisons to make in terms to their roster between now and training camp.  And after a quiet free agency fans have directed their attention towards the NFL Draft.  In a new two round A to Z Sports Mock Draft the Colts left with two impactful players at positions of […]

Destin Adams NFL News Writer
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Oct 21, 2023; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (11) celebrates his touchdown against the Army Black Knights during the first half at Tiger Stadium.
Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts have some big decisons to make in terms to their roster between now and training camp. 

And after a quiet free agency fans have directed their attention towards the NFL Draft. 

In a new two round A to Z Sports Mock Draft the Colts left with two impactful players at positions of need. 

Round 1, Pick 15: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU 

Brian Thomas Jr 11 runs the ball as the LSU Tigers take on Texas A&M in Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, November 25, 2023.
SCOTT CLAUSE/USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK

"The Colts choosing not to make a move to improve their secondary so far this offseason makes me seriously consider drafting a CB with this pick. But I can't shake how perfect of a fit LSU WR Brian Thomas Jr. is for both Shane Steichen's offense and what Chris Ballard values at the position. I think Thomas Jr. can slide into the Colts' starting Z WR spot on day one, and I think he offers them the flexibility to fill the X role when needed to move Michael Pittman Jr. around the field as needed."

It wasn't easy to pass on Alabma CB Terrion Arnold but giving Shane Steichen and Anthony Richardson a WR of Brian Thomas Jr.'s caliber is too good to pass up. The Colts want a consistent deep threat and while Alec Pierce was hindered last year due to Richardson's injury we saw Thomas Jr. lead the FBS with 17 touchdowns and would be a perfect fit for both Steichen's offense and the Colts typical build at WR. 

Round 2, Pick 40: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Oct 21, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) looks on during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Kinnick Stadium.
Oct 21, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) looks on during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Kinnick Stadium.Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

After passing on a DB in round one it was important for the Colts to add to their secondary in round two. And after Iowa CB Cooper DeJean was still on the board I decided to have the Colts make a trade up to land a player I believe they view highly. The Colts have needs at both safety spots as well as at CB, and Dejean is a unique player with he ability to play all over the secondary. Another element of his game that makes him a valuable prospect is his ability as a returner. I think DeJean would allow the Colts to attack the remainder of free agency and have Dejean ready to compete at multiple different positions come training camp.