Indianapolis Colts Pre-Draft Depth Chart 2024: Can the Roster Recreate Success from 2023 Season?
The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for the NFL Draft and hoping to build on the success they had in the 2023 season. With the first waves of free agency behind them, the Colts have maintained most of their roster from last year, with General Manager Chris Ballard opting for a conservative approach. As the draft approaches, let’s take a closer look at the Colts’ roster and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses.
Quarterback:
The Colts’ starting quarterback is Anthony Richardson, who was drafted in the first round last year. Despite being limited to only four games due to injuries, Richardson showed flashes of his potential with seven total touchdowns and several big plays. If he can stay healthy, Richardson has the potential to become the face of the franchise and lead the team back to the playoffs. Veteran Joe Flacco will serve as his backup, bringing experience and the ability to push the ball downfield if needed.
Running back:
Jonathan Taylor is the Colts’ starting running back and is expected to have a big year. Despite missing 13 games over the past two seasons due to injuries, Taylor has shown his ability to be a dynamic playmaker when healthy. With Trey Sermon and Evan Hull providing depth, the Colts have a strong backfield that can make an impact in both the running and passing game.
Wide receiver:
Michael Pittman Jr. had a career year in 2023 with over 1,100 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He will continue to be a key target for Anthony Richardson this season. Josh Downs also had a promising rookie season, and Alec Pierce is expected to bounce back after a down year. The Colts may consider drafting another wide receiver to add explosiveness to their receiving corps.
Tight end:
Mo Alie-Cox is the Colts’ starting tight end and is known for his blocking abilities. Jelani Woods, who missed the 2023 season due to injuries, has the potential to become a breakout player if he can stay healthy. The Colts lack a true number one option at tight end and may look to address this in the draft.
Offensive line:
The Colts’ offensive line bounced back in 2023 after a disappointing 2022 season. Left tackle Bernhard Raimann and left guard Quenton Nelson are key pieces of the offensive line. Center Ryan Kelly and right tackle Braden Smith dealt with injuries last season but are expected to be fully healthy for the upcoming season. The Colts may add more depth to the offensive line through the draft.
Edge:
Samson Ebukam and Kwity Paye are the Colts’ starting edge rushers. Ebukam had a strong season last year, leading the team in sacks. Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo have shown potential but have yet to become game-changers. The Colts may look to add another edge rusher in the draft to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Defensive tackle:
DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart form one of the most formidable defensive tackle duos in the NFL. Raekwon Davis provides depth and should help strengthen the team’s run defense. Taven Bryan and Eric Johnson II also offer depth at the position.
Linebacker:
Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed are the Colts’ starting linebackers. Franklin has set franchise records for tackles in back-to-back seasons and recently signed a contract extension. Ronnie Harrison Jr. and Segun Olubi provide solid depth at the position. The Colts may look to draft another linebacker for added depth.
Cornerback:
Kenny Moore II is the Colts’ top cornerback and will start in the slot. JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones will likely start on the outside, with Dallis Flowers providing depth. The Colts have not made any significant moves to upgrade their cornerback position, which could be a concern. They may consider adding a veteran cornerback in free agency or the draft.
Safety:
Julian Blackmon and Rodney Thomas II are projected to be the Colts’ starting safeties. Blackmon recently signed a one-year deal to return to the team after a strong season in 2023. Nick Cross provides depth and could compete for a starting role.
Specialists:
The Colts’ specialists, including kicker Matt Gay, long snapper Luke Rhodes, and punter Rigoberto Sanchez, are among the best in the NFL. Dallis Flowers is expected to handle kick return duties, with Josh Downs potentially seeing more action as a punt returner.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Colts have the opportunity to add more talent and depth to their roster. With key players returning from injuries and promising young players, the Colts have the potential to recreate the success they had in the 2023 season and make a run for the playoffs. General Manager Chris Ballard will need to make strategic moves in the draft to address the team’s weaknesses and ensure they have a competitive roster heading into the 2024 season.