The NFL offseason is in full swing, and for Indianapolis Colts fans, this can only mean one thing: mock draft season! With the team already gearing up for the 2025 campaign, the focus has shifted to analyzing who the Colts might pick in this year’s draft. Let’s dive into what the experts are predicting and uncover some of the key insights from the latest mock draft roundup.
Where the Colts Stand Right Now
As of now, the Colts hold the 14th overall pick in April’s draft. That’s a prime spot to land a game-changing player, and with seven selections overall—one in each round—the Colts have plenty of opportunities to bolster their roster. However, the exact placement of their picks in Rounds 2-7 will depend on the final outcomes of the NFL playoffs.
Free Agency: A Bigger Piece of the Puzzle?
General Manager Chris Ballard has been clear about one thing: the Colts need more competition across the roster. This could mean a more active approach to free agency this offseason. Now, when we say “larger role,” it’s important to keep expectations in check. Ballard’s track record suggests the Colts will still lean heavily on the draft as their primary source for adding talent. But don’t be surprised if free agency fills a few critical gaps before draft day arrives.
Position Groups in the Spotlight
One thing is clear: the Colts have several areas in need of reinforcements. While you could make a case for adding depth to almost any position, three groups stand out as the biggest priorities:
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Tight End – The Colts need a reliable target who can make plays in crucial moments.
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Cornerback – With today’s pass-heavy offenses, shoring up the secondary is essential.
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Safety – A dynamic safety could elevate the defense and bring much-needed versatility.
These priorities set the stage for the team’s draft strategy and help explain the names popping up in recent mock drafts.
Who the Experts Think the Colts Will Draft
Let’s break down the predictions from various analysts:
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Fox Sports: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State – A versatile tight end who can impact both the passing and running game.
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Draft Wire: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee – An explosive edge rusher who can disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
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CBS Sports: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia – A physical and instinctive safety who could transform the Colts’ secondary.
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CBS Sports (second projection): James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee – Another nod to Pearce Jr., reinforcing the need for a pass-rusher.
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The Athletic: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State – Warren’s name appears again, signaling widespread belief in his potential fit with the Colts.
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Pro Football Network: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan – A confident cornerback with size and skill to handle top receivers.
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33rd Football Team: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State – Warren continues to dominate the mock drafts.
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CBS Sports (alternate projection): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan – Johnson’s ability to lock down receivers makes him a popular choice.
Why These Picks Make Sense
Each of these players addresses a pressing need for the Colts. Tyler Warren stands out as a multifaceted weapon who can stretch the field and provide solid blocking, making him an ideal target for a team looking to upgrade at tight end. Meanwhile, James Pearce Jr. brings speed and athleticism off the edge, something the Colts’ defense has lacked in recent seasons. On the back end, Malaki Starks and Will Johnson offer the kind of playmaking ability that can elevate the entire secondary.
Draft Strategy and Flexibility
Even with these predictions, the Colts’ draft approach remains fluid. Ballard has always emphasized drafting the best player available, which means the team could pivot based on how the board falls. Additionally, their seven picks give them the flexibility to trade up or down, depending on their needs and the value they see in certain players.
What This Means for Colts Fans
The draft is an exciting time for any fanbase, but for Colts fans, this year feels especially pivotal. The 14th overall pick offers a chance to land a true difference-maker, and the variety of mock draft predictions shows just how many directions the team could go. Will it be a dynamic tight end? A shutdown cornerback? Or perhaps an edge rusher to strike fear into opposing offenses? The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this time of year so thrilling.
Key Takeaways
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The Colts hold the 14th overall pick in April’s draft, with seven selections total.
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Free agency could play a larger role this offseason, but the draft remains the primary focus.
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Tight end, cornerback, and safety are the team’s biggest needs heading into 2025.
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Experts are split, but Tyler Warren (TE), James Pearce Jr. (Edge), Malaki Starks (S), and Will Johnson (CB) are common predictions.
Final Thoughts
As the offseason unfolds, Colts fans can look forward to plenty of speculation, analysis, and debate. The mock drafts are just the beginning of what promises to be an intriguing journey toward the 2025 NFL season. With a blend of free agency moves and draft-day decisions, the Colts have an opportunity to position themselves for success. So buckle up, because the road to April’s draft is just getting started!
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