:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/11685583/143441972.0.jpg)
The Colts dedicated 8 of their 10 picks to offense last season. The two players who were drafted on the defensive side (NT Josh Chapman and LB Tim Fugger) did not play a single down in 2012.
One of the results of this lack of meaningful investment through the draft was a defense ranked 29th against the run and had only 32 sacks while surrendering 24.2 points-per-game.
With so much emphasis placed on offense last year, it seems impossible to imagine Ryan Grigson selecting an offensive player in Round One this year. If he does, defensive coordinator Greg Manusky will probably kick a small dog.
When it comes to consensus among us Stampede Blue writers, we all seem to agree that Grigson will go defense in Round One, and thus save a small pooch from being punted by the Colts defensive coordinator.
Brad Wells
Round One, Pick No. 24: Datone Jones, DE, UCLA
Pass rusher is a huge need in the draft. However, if the Colts are truly dedicated to having - sigh - Erik Walden start at outside linebacker, then logic demands that you do not draft someone like Damontre Moore from Texas A&M. Not if Jones is still on the board.
Jones offers the total package, and at 6'4, 283 lbs, he's perfect to play defensive end in a 3-4 and under tackle in a 4-3 on passing downs.
Stew Blake
Round One, Pick No. 24: Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington
Reasoning:
It's hard to pick when we have no idea how the previous 23 picks will unfold, but if Desmond Trufant is available at #24, you take him. BPA is Grigson's motto and it will likely apply here with the elite pass rushers off the board. Truffant's bloodline is there and he possesses the speed and athleticism to run with the league's most talented receivers.
Evan Sidery
Round One, Pick No. 24: OLB Cornellius "Tank" Carradine
I have him as a top 15 prospect without the acl injury. If he’s healthy he will be a monster to replace Mathis and on 3rd down situations.
For the No. 86 pick, consensus breaks down.
Brad Wells
Round Three, Pick No. 86: Corey Lemonier, DE/OLB, Auburn
Reasoning:
I've seen mocks with Lemonier falling to pick No. 86, and if he is still there, Grigson absolutely must take him. Robert Mathis is on the wrong side of 30, and he spent a lot of time in 2012 dealing with injuries. Rushing the passer should always be a major priority for any defense. One can never have enough pass rushers or cover corners, and since the Colts have used free agency to address the corner position, pick No. 86 goes to another pass rusher.
Stew Blake
Round Three, Pick No. 86: Trevardo Williams, OLB, Connecticut
Reasoning:
He can stand up or put his hand down. Also has undeniable speed.
Evan Sidery
Round Three, Pick No. 86:
Please offer your Colts draft predictions in the comments below.I go with Bell here, due to the fact that I’ve heard the Colts have major interest in him from a scout I talked to and some draft analysts. I would take an OLB here, but Carradine fills that. also grigson mentioned he doenst want to start an OL as a rookie so that takes out Jones. I like Le’Veon Bell the most without injury concerns out of running backs.