With the 2024 NFL Draft less than two weeks away, the Indianapolis Colts are expected to address some vital positions of need with their picks in the early rounds.
There are several ways the Colts can go about making these decisions, and they are decisions that will essentially shape the perception of the offseason.
Finding ideal prospects that fit what the Colts both want and need is the name of the game during the final week in April. It may not always work out that way, but that’s the goal for every team.
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In the eyes of NFL.com’s Chad Reuter, the ideal prospects for the Colts involve a cornerback and a wide receiver.
Two prospects dubbed as ideal picks for Colts
Holding the No. 15 and No. 46 overall picks to begin their draft, there are several options for the Colts to consider.
In Reuter’s view, they shouldn’t overlook the combination of adding a savvy cornerback who can start right away to go along with a late breakout wide receiver with insane measurables.
Round 1: No. 15 overall: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
Round 2: No. 46 overall: Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
Arnold’s a fiery competitor who made plays all over the field for Alabama. He could focus on stopping outside receivers, with Kenny Moore II returning to the Colts to man the slot, though the rookie could handle those duties if needed, as well. Arnold’s 4.5 40 speed at the NFL Scouting Combine didn’t impress, but his excellent pro day cemented his top-20 status. Legette’s ability to get past smaller defenders with his long strides, along with his ability to body them up on short and intermediate routes, could get him on the field regularly for a team that relies heavily on three-receiver sets.
It’s difficult to deny Arnold being an ideal match for the Colts in Round 1. He checks nearly every box the Colts have when it comes to the cornerback position, and he’d be a fantastic complement to Julius Brents on the boundary.
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Legette is a bit more of a polarizing prospect. His size and athleticism is insane, and he clearly is a menace with the ball in his hands. But it also took him five years in college to produce more than 170 yards in a season.
The Colts have two massive needs entering the draft. They need a starting-caliber player at cornerback and they need to add more explosiveness on offense. Despite Legette’s need for further development, both prospects wold check those boxes.
