Colts get QB, Secondary Help in Kiper's Latest Mock Draft
Mel Kiper Jr. is the original NFL Draft analyst, and he's released a two-round mock draft with analysis on ESPN+. In his mock, he has the Indianapolis Colts getting their quarterback of the future in the first round and a quarterback for the secondary in the second round.
By holding firm at No. 4, the Colts took a gamble they would be able to get a quarterback of their liking. We'll see if the gamble pays off, because Kiper has quarterbacks going first, second, and third with the Colts getting the fourth choice... Kentucky's Will Levis.
Indianapolis worked out Levis last week, and they might be perfectly content to sit back and let Levis fall to them. Kiper has the Tennessee Titans making an aggressive move to No. 3 to select Anthony Richardson.
The gamble would be a good one according to Kiper who has Levis ranked as his second-highest quarterback.
I'm sticking with Levis to Indianapolis here. General manager Chris Ballard could get lucky with my second-ranked quarterback still on the board. Why do I like Levis over Stroud and Richardson? Because of his ability both in and out of the pocket. In 2021, when Levis was really on, he made "wow" throws to every part of the field and also ran for nine scores. Last season, while dealing with injuries and after losing a lot of talent around him, he forced too many throws and was inconsistent. I think Levis' floor is high, and he'll be able to start immediately for the Colts.
By the way, if you're wondering how often quarterbacks have been taken with the first four picks in a single draft, well, I can tell you this would be the first time ever. Passers have gone with the first three picks three other times -- 2021, 1999 and 1971 -- but this would be history. -- Mel Kiper Jr. ESPN+
The Colts are on the clock again in the second round with the 35th-overall pick. Kiper has Indianapolis taking the draft's top safety, Brian Branch from Alabama.
Nick Saban used Branch primarily as a slot corner, but Branch is my top-ranked safety in this class. The versatility to play in the nickel or as a center fielder sets him apart. His 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the combine was below average, but I didn't see him get beat often on tape; I'm not worried about his timed speed. Branch would have the chance to be an instant starter in the Colts' secondary. -- Mel Kiper Jr. ESPN+
At 6'0 and 190 pounds, Branch is solid against the run, but he is considered excellent in coverage. A leader on Alabama's defense, he would grow into a similar role with the Colts.
The Colts have been quiet during the offseason so far. Will they be content to let other teams make moves ahead of them. They weren't willing to outspend the Carolina Panthers for the No. 1 spot, but will they stay put at No. 4?
It's a gamble, but according to Kiper, it's a gamble worth taking.
