Colts Draft: Ballard's Late-Round Gems

0:00On April 19th, the Indianapolis Colts are just one week from the NFL draft kicking off, and they won't make a pick until the 47 spot midway through Round 2. With no first rounder, they've got seven selections total, five on day three and rounds four through seven. This draft class runs deep, so missing day one isn't a total disaster if they play it smart. General manager Chris Ballard stays true to form. He won't trade up for a premium pick, especially in this maker break off season. Instead, he's all about stacking dart throws, those late round gyms that can turn into starters, like his pass hits on the offensive line. Fans and analysts see the pressure mounting, with the team desperate for immediate help at linebacker, edge rusher, and wide receiver to shore up A. Shakey defense embouce the passing game. Losing vets like Kenny Moore II means they need plug and play talent right away, not projects. Top targets include linebackers, like Anthony Hill Jr., a 21-year-old athletic beast at 240 pounds, who could wear the green.

1:02Dottas is thy year Franklin replacement, and Jacob Rodriguez, a Heisman finalist with monster stats. Corner D'Angelo Ponds might slide to them as a slot defender clone, while edge guys like Romello Height and Zion Young bring explosion in power. Keep an eye on how Ballard maneuvers on day two. These fits could flip the script fast and get the cults back in contention before the season hits.