The Indianapolis Colts have a system, and every year Bill Polian seems to make a move that no one else understands. However, Polian is right more often that he is wrong. We have to keep that in mind when grading his draft classes. Jerry Hughes fell to this team at the 31st overall pick, and he fits what they do. He will back up both Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, be the third pass rusher, and play on special teams. Overall we have to consider this a great draft pick. In the second round they selected LB Pat Angerer, and he is a clone of current Colts MLB Gary Brackett.
This is the move that many are questioning. Most pre draft reports had Angerer rated as a sixth round pick, with virtually no upside. Taking him here with the 63rd overall pick is too high for him just to be a back up MLB. It seems he will be groomed to be the one day replacement for Brackett. In the third round they secured a CB in Kevin Thompson who will step in as their Nickel and Dime DB, since they play a lot of plays in those defense look for him to make a big impact as well.
With that being said here is a look at the initial grade for the 2010 Colts draft class:
• Round One – A, Hughes is a great player who fits what the Colts do • Round Two – C, I think they reached for Angerer, but I don’t like betting against Polian •Talent- B, One very good prospect, one question mark •Need- A, They got a DT, a LB, and a CB all of which were primary needs •Average- B
Related Links:
• Indianapolis Colts news and notes • 2010 NFL Draft initial team grades • The Business of the NFL •MTR Football.com