NFL Mock Draft 2017: Latest mock draft has Colts taking Dalvin Cook

In the uncertainty of the NFL Draft process, there seems to be one sure thing: the Colts will be linked to Dalvin Cook in mock drafts.

That’s once again true in the latest mock draft released today by SB Nation’s Dan Kadar, as he has the Colts taking the Florida State running back with the 15th overall pick.

The Colts have gone on a front-seven binge, signing Barkevious Mingo, Jabaal Sheard and John Simon this offseason. Because of that, they may be under the impression that a pass rusher is no longer a first-round need. Instead they could go after Cook, a versatile running back who might remind Colts fans of Edgerrin James.

The defensive strength of this draft class shows in the mock draft, as nine of the first 14 picks are defensive players - which wouldn’t be the ideal scenario for a Colts team needing defensive playmakers. And to be fair, the Colts do indeed need a running back. That’s why Dalvin Cook wouldn’t neccessarily be a bad pick for them, because he’s a good player, would be a nice fit in Indy’s offense, and would address a need. So this wouldn’t be a bad pick, but the question is always about whether it would be the best pick or not.

In that regard, I think it’s worth pointing out that the Colts’ free agent moves haven’t really erased the need for a pass rusher. In fact, I’d argue that the need for a true edge rusher is just as important as ever for Indianapolis, they just now have some more flexibility at outside linebacker and guys who can handle the strongside spot. You could argue that other needs (like cornerback) are now just of needs for the Colts as edge rusher, but that wouldn’t neccessarily be tied to the moves the Colts have already made.

If the Colts think that Dalvin Cook is a special player who truly could remind of Edgerrin James, there wouldn’t be a problem with taking him in the first round. But with so many other needs, they’ll need to really be sure that he’s the best available player at the spot.