Colts fans want team to take outside linebacker in first round

Yesterday, the Colts Twitter account put out a poll asking fans what position they wanted to see taken in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft.

Over 12,000 people responded to the poll, and it’s an interesting look at what Colts fans are thinking regarding the team’s needs. The clear favorite should be obvious: outside linebacker.

The fact that outside linebacker came in first in the poll - and by a significant margin - should surprise absolutely no one, as the Colts desperately need a pass rusher - and two starting outside linebackers.

The position that came in second, however, was particularly interesting. According to this totally scientific and completely reliable social media poll, Colts fans think that the offensive line is the second-biggest need. And it’s understandable that some would think that, since Andrew Luck was hit and pressured as much as ever last year. Even Chris Ballard has acknowledged that the right side of the line is something the Colts could work on, and I doubt many would disagree with that.

The question, of course, is whether addressing the right side of the line is truly the best use of the first round pick - in a draft filled with defensive talent. The Colts drafted four offensive linemen last year for a reason: last year’s draft was strong in that area, whereas this year’s draft isn’t as much. This year’s draft is particularly strong at the other needs mentioned: outside linebacker, cornerback, and running back.

As a bit of a side note, it’s strange that inside linebacker wasn’t mentioned as one of the options on the Colts’ poll. The Colts could ideally stand to add two starting inside linebackers, and it’s a very weak area of the roster just like outside linebacker is.

Outside linebacker, inside linebacker, cornerback, running back, and offensive line are all areas the Colts could stand to address and could all be considered needs. But what’s the most important? Outside linebacker is first, but I wouldn’t put offensive line second.

Anyway, let’s get your opinion: in our very own scientific poll that’s surely representative of all Colts fans, what position do you want to see the Colts address in the first round?