While following the draft from within Radio City Music Hall, the names that kept getting tossed around in association with the Indianapolis Colts at pick No. 86 were Quinton Patton, Jess Williams, or Corey Lemonier.
Instead of those prospects, Colts general manager Ryan Grigson opted to select offensive guard Hugh Thornton.
And, if you believe Grigson, Thornton was his target from the beginning of the second day of the draft.
Grigson said Thornton was the target from the time he woke up this morning. #Colts
— George Bremer (@gmbremer) April 27, 2013
It's worth noting that Thornton was recruited to the University of Illinois by Joe Gilbert. Gilbert is the current offensive line coach for the Colts.
So, if anyone knows how good Thornton can be, it's Gilbert and Grigson.
More draft insight from Grigson, via George Bremer:
#Colts never really considered trading up. Didn't want to mortgage the remainder of draft to move into second round.
— George Bremer (@gmbremer) April 27, 2013
Thornton told the media that reuniting with coach Gilbert was by "grace of God."
So, it seems Thornton was the guy Indianapolis really wanted.
Day three of the NFL Draft begins tomorrow at 12:00 PM ET.