:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59258463/usa_today_10532172.0.jpg)
We’ve mentioned recently that the pre-draft visits will start ramping up as the 2018 NFL Draft inches ever closer. According to Clarence Hill Jr. of the Star-Telegram one of the top linebackers in this class will be visiting with the Indianapolis Colts Wednesday.
Per source with boots on the ground in Athens, Georgia LB Roquan Smith does not have a visit scheduled with the Cowboys. He leaves tomorrow for visits with Indy and Chicago
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) April 3, 2018
Roquan Smith has been one to watch over the past several months during the season, and scouting his play since the start of the year has only solidified his stock at this point. The 6-foot-1, 236 pound linebacker is expected to be a first-round selection, and though the Colts pick at No. 6 overall — currently — they have to keep their eyes on the prize pending any changes to their current lineup.
Should the Colts trade back a bit further, for example, if Saquon Barkley and Bradley Chubb are off of the board when they are on the clock at 6th, Smith could be a perfect option for the Colts to improve their floundering linebacker corps. Smith tallied more than 230 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks (all in 2017) over the past two seasons at Georgia.
Whether Smith would be a target for the Colts if they stand pat at No. 6 is the million dollar question. Some would argue against positional value, similar to that of the argument against Notre Dame guard Quenton Nelson, but when you look at where the Colts are, obtaining the top available talent on your board cannot steer you wrong.
Expect more top-30 visits in the coming days.