Indianapolis Colts 2022 Mock Draft: Who Replaces Carson Wentz?
By Hunter Haas
Round 2, Pick 42: QB Sam Howell (North Carolina)
It is no question that the biggest hole on the roster for the Indianapolis Colts is at quarterback. The value of Sam Howell at 42 was too good to pass up. Ideally, he won’t see the field at all during the 2022 NFL season. Whether it is Jimmy Garoppolo, Teddy Bridgewater, or another veteran, this is a long-term play drafting North Carolina product.
Howell has no shortage of arm talent, but the mental processing aspect is something he must improve before supplanting a veteran as QB1. This move takes all the pressure off of Howell, allowing him the freedom to develop in Indy.
Round 3, Pick 73: OT Rasheed Walker (Penn State)
Rasheed Walker is a polarizing option in draft circles. The concerns are valid, he’s extremely raw. Much like Howell, Walker would benefit greatly by taking a redshirt as a rookie. Bringing in a veteran to be a stopgap at left tackle helps the team today, and for the future.
If Ballard can land Duane Brown or another veteran on a short-term deal, it would provide the perfect bridge until Walker is ready to take over as the franchise left tackle.
Round 3, Pick 82: WR Calvin Austin lll (Memphis)
Calvin Austin set Twitter ablaze after a tremendous showing at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. He surely caught the eye of the hometown team, as the Indianapolis Colts are possibly going to be in search of a TY Hilton replacement.
Austin and his track star speed fits the bill. He would be a menace from the slot, giving the team a field stretcher that is a necessity to Frank Reich’s system. He is more advanced as a route runner than he gets credit for, too. A perfect fit.