2018 NFL Draft first round re-draft: What changes one year later?

6. Indianapolis Colts: Darius Leonard, LB, South Carolina State

Original Pick: Quenton Nelson

In this re-draft, Darius Leonard stays on the same team that selected him in the 2018 NFL Draft. Just selected a full round earlier. The 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year was the fifth selection of the second round by the Colts. Here, the Colts have to spend the sixth overall pick of the first round to get their guy.

This was a tough decision, as the original pick, guard Quenton Nelson, was just as impactful for the Colts offense as Leonard was for their defense. But ultimately, I think the Colts value the new quarterback of their defense just a bit more and lock him up right here at six.

Leonard makes the biggest jump of any drafted player from 2018 after leading the NFL in tackles his rookie season with 163 combined tackles. He was also able to add 7.0 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions, and 10 passes defended as an off-ball linebacker.

The Colts can’t let a break-though talent like Leonard get away, even if it means letting their All-Pro guard slip to another team. Leonard will likely serve as the centerpiece of an improving Colts defense going forward and will be a vital part of any success that the Colts may have in the coming years.