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Indianapolis Colts 2021 NFL Draft grades: More juice for the pass rush

By Jacob Schyvinck

Nov 2, 2019; College Park, MD, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Kwity Paye (19), possible 2021 NFL Draft target of the Los Angeles Chargers, and linebacker Jordan Glasgow (29) prior to the snap during the 2g against the Maryland Terrapins at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2019; College Park, MD, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Kwity Paye (19), possible 2021 NFL Draft target of the Los Angeles Chargers, and linebacker Jordan Glasgow (29) prior to the snap during the 2g against the Maryland Terrapins at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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New Colts tackle Will Fries. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-USA TODAY Sports
New Colts tackle Will Fries. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-USA TODAY Sports /

Scouting Report. Wide Receiver. Michael Strachan. 229. Pick Analysis. Charleston. player. 46

The Indianapolis Colts were thought to potentially be in the market for a playmaker at receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft but didn’t address the position until late, selecting Division II standout Michael Strachan from Charleston. He is truly a developmental prospect but brings the tools of a  future height/weight/speed type on the outside. It’s a solid swing this late, but it’ll be some time before we know if the pick works out.

Grade: B-

248. player. Pick Analysis. Penn State. Will Fries. 46. Scouting Report. Offensive Tackle

Finally, the Indianapolis Colts select a tackle, in the final dozen selections of the draft as a whole. Penn State tackle Will Fries was regarded more as an early day three selection by many analysts, so getting him this late is a pretty good deal. He flashes some great technique and football IQ as a pass protector, but it might take him time before he’s ready to go as a starter. At the very least, he’s a good depth selection.

Grade: B

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Indianapolis Colts did a solid job in the draft, but it’s hard to imagine how much they will get from this class right away. The lack of a third-round pick definitely hindered them from finding a potential starter on day two, but they did address their major need on the defensive line. Getting a tight end and tackle with potential were good swings, but some issues remain.

Next. Grading and analyzing every 2021 NFL Draft pick. dark

Indy is betting on Eric Fisher to come back and be effective at left tackle, and they are hoping that T.Y. Hilton still has plenty left in the tank. A Parris Campbell breakout would soften the receiver need. The real issue in this class was not getting a potential perimeter corner. Yes, Rhodes is back, but Rock Ya-Sin hasn’t found it and it’s hard to believe Isaiah Rodgers becomes a starter in year two. The draft was fine, but it’s a long-term bet and not one that provides a ton of immediate help.

Final Grade: B-

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