With 2023 NFL training camps on the horizon, we’re starting to get an idea of how 2023 NFL draft classes will impact each roster this season.
Let's look at the Indianapolis Colts, breaking down the most likely instant-impact rookies from each class, while also providing some insight into why certain early picks may not see the field.
These insights are an excerpt from Warren Sharp's 500+ page book “2023 Football Preview” which is now available for download.
In the book, you can find a comprehensive breakdown of the rookie class for all 32 NFL teams by draft guru Ryan McCrystal.
Who are the Indianapolis Colts rookies?
- Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida | Round 1, Pick 4
- Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State | Round 2, Pick 44
- Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina | Round 3, Pick 79
- Blake Freeland, OT, BYU | Round 4, Pick 106
- Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern | Round 4, Pick 110
- Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina | Round 5, Pick 138
- Daniel Scott, S, Cal | Round 5, Pick 158
- Will Mallory, TE, Miami | Round 5, Pick 162
- Evan Hull, RB, Northwestern | Round 5, Pick 176
- Titus Leo, EDGE, Wagner | Round 6, Pick 211
- Jaylon Jones, CB, Texas A&M | Round 7, Pick 221
- Jake Witt, OT, Northern Michigan | Round 7, Pick 236
Indianapolis Colts Draft Class Grade:
The Colts received an A+ rookie class draft grade from PFF, a B from ESPN, and an A- from NFL Network.
Which Colts Rookies Will Make An Impact?
The Colts made one of the biggest gambles in the history of the draft by selecting Anthony Richardson (first round). Few players have ever been less productive in college before landing in the first round, especially at quarterback.
Comparisons have been made between Richardson and Josh Allen, but the metrics don’t support those theories. Allen's primary issue at Wyoming was making a handful of devastating mistakes per game, but his baseline performance was strong.
Richardson, however, has a poor baseline which occasionally gets propped up by incredible highlight-reel plays.
Richardson is years away from performing at a high level, but the Colts do appear to have the right coaching staff for the job. Shane Steichen worked wonders for Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia, and quarterbacks coach Cam Turner has experience working with Cam Newton and Kyler Murray.
Julius Brents (second round) appears to be a traits-based selection and a developmental project at cornerback. Based on route-adjusted data, Brents allowed a catch rate 8.2% above expected over his two seasons as a starter at Kansas State.
At 6-foot-3 and with 34-inch arms, Brents has the size and length Gus Bradley covets in his cornerbacks.
In college, Brents was far outplayed by Darius Rush (fifth round), who looks like one of the best value picks of this entire draft. It’s unclear why Rush unexpectedly fell to the fifth round, though a series of injuries throughout his career could be the explanation.
With 33-inch inch arms, Rush also has the length Bradley covets, and he could challenge Brents for snaps despite the lower investment.
Daniel Scott (fifth round) and Jaylon Jones (seventh round) also add depth to the secondary, though it may be tough for the Colts to justify four rookies on the unit.
Josh Downs (third round) is a reliable pass-catcher from the slot, but his modest athletic traits likely limits him to that role. His 6.1% catch rate above expected over the past two seasons ranks among the top in this draft class. Downs should compete with Isaiah McKenzie for snaps in the slot as a rookie.
Blake Freeland (fourth round) was a surprising pick following the selection of Richardson. Though Freeland is a good athlete at left tackle, his height makes it tough for him to play with leverage and he often struggles in the run game.
As the Colts are likely to lean heavily on the run game early in Richardson’s career, it’s tough to envision them trusting Freeland within the next year or two.
Ade Adebawore (fourth round) is a special athlete for his size and may quickly exceed his collegiate production in Indy. The Colts immediately stated a desire to play Adebawore in the three-technique role. Adebawore led the Big Ten in pressure rate (12.1%) when lined up on the interior defensive line.
Will Mallory (fifth round) was a surprising selection considering the depth at tight end. He has an uphill battle for a roster spot against Jelani Woods, Kylen Granson, and Mo Alie-Cox.
Evan Hull (fifth round) could compete for the backup running back job with Zack Moss and Deon Jackson. He’s a physical downhill runner like Moss but a better pass-catcher.
Titus Leo (sixth round) is a linebacker-end tweener who probably plays end in Bradley’s scheme. Due to the crowded depth chart, he’s a strong candidate to land on the practice squad.
Jake Witt (seventh round) is purely a developmental prospect, but his elite athletic profile sets a high ceiling.
The Colts added plenty of high-upside prospects in this class and will likely emerge with multiple long-term starters due to the combination of talent and depth. That said, this class will ultimately be judged by Richardson’s development.
Though there are significant differences between Richardson and Josh Allen, the Colts should pay close attention to the Bills’ process.
Allen benefited greatly from spending the first four years of his career with the same head coach and offensive coordinator. Stability in Indianapolis will be key for Richardson’s development.
