After going 2-14 in 2011, the Colts were the most improved team in 2012, finishing with an 11-5 record and second in the AFC South. They also finished one game behind the division champ Houston Texans. So what do the Colts need to do to win back the AFC South from the vaunted Houston Texans? Having a good draft would help. Let’s see what I have playing out.
1st Round – 24th Overall – DE Datone Jones, UCLA
Chuck Pagano has made it no secret that the Colts are looking at help at the defensive end position after the departure of longtime Colt Dwight Freeney. Their best pass rusher last year was Robert Mathis, a player that’s not getting any younger. Let’s also not forget the Colts only accumulated 32.0 sacks throughout the entire 2012 season. That earned them 23rd in the league in that category, leaving much room for improvement.
3rd Round – 86th Overall – Da’Rick Rogers, Tennessee Tech
Even though he may have character issues, Da’Rick Rogers would be a great fit with the Colts. T.Y. Hilton played great last year, but he fits best in the slot position, leaving the Colts in need of a wide receiver that can fill the number two spot. Chuck Pagano and co. can shape this disgruntled receiver into a star in no time.
4th Round – 121 Overall – OG David Bakhtiari – Colorado
Andrew Luck was running for his life all year so picking up a guard that can also play right tackle if necessary is the best option here. With the addition of Gosder Cherilus, guard is now a bigger need than tackle for the Colts. They need to make improving the offensive line a huge priority during this draft.
6th Round – 192nd Overall – RB Jawan Jamison, Rutgers
Vick Ballard played quite well last year, but bringing in competition for training camp purposes won’t hurt. Futhermore, fellow runningbacks Donald Brown and Delone Carter haven’t shown consistency in backup roles.
7th Round – 230th Overall – OT Alex Hurst, LSU
Colts bring in more offensive line depth in the form of “Big Clyde,” as in the Clydesdale horse, earning his nickname from his huge 6’6, 340-pound frame and his strong work ethic in the weight room.
7th Round – 245th Overall – DE Lawrence Okeye, Great Britain
Colts pick up a big, strong defensive end with the final pick in the NFL Draft to compete in training camp.
AFC South Mock Draft Schedule:
April 20 – Jacksonville Jaguars
April 22 – Indianapolis Colts
April 23 – Houston Texans
