CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco went back and regarded the 2023 draft classes for each NFL team, including the Indianapolis Colts, whose grade has taken a significant hit after how the last three seasons have unfolded.
Following the 2023 draft, the Colts initially received a B from Prisco. Today, that draft class was given a D.
“Not good,” Prisco said of his original draft grade for the Colts. “I thought their best pick was second-round corner JuJu Brents, but he is now in Miami after being let go. I thought Downs went higher than expected, but he has played well. I also said the draft would be defined by Richardson, who I thought had the tools with some development. That clearly hasn’t happened.”
Headlining that class was, of course, Anthony Richardson, who has struggled during his time as a starter, and the team is actively attempting to trade him currently. However, GM Chris Ballard is struggling to find a trade partner.
In the second round, the Colts took JuJu Brents, who was released last summer. Blake Freeland saw significant playing time as a rookie, but has seen minimal playing time since.
Darius Rush, Evan Hull, and Titus Leo didn’t make it through their rookie contracts with the Colts.
Daniel Scott has played just 13 defensive snaps, unfortunately, navigating injuries during his career. Will Mallory has been the fourth tight end, while Jaylon Jones’ role was significantly reduced last season.
Out of 12 picks in that draft, Josh Downs is the only selection that is a sure-fire hit for Ballard, while Adetomiwa Adebawore is developing into a sound rotational defender.
“This draft was all about taking quarterback Anthony Richardson with the fourth overall pick,” Prisco wrote. “So far, it’s been a major fail. Injuries have impacted his play, but he wasn’t good when he did play. He is still young and raw. The rest of the 12-man draft class didn’t produce a lot either. Third-round receiver Josh Downs is a good player and seventh-round corner Jaylon Jones has started. Fourth-round defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore is a rotational player.”
Missing on this many selections in one draft class is a big reason behind the overall roster holes and issues that the Colts have had in recent seasons.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts’ 2023 draft class receives low grade after further review
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
