The Indianapolis Colts are under two weeks away from the 2020 NFL draft where they are likely to address the quarterback position at some point. Here’s a preview of the position entering the big event.
Starter: Philip Rivers — signed through 2020
Backup: Jacoby Brissett — signed through 2020
Level of need: High
Cap investment: $47.125 million (1st in NFL)
Quick Review
The Colts didn’t get enough out of their quarterback position in 2019 when Brissett failed to carry the offense for the entire season. This led them to sign Philip Rivers to a one-year, $25 million deal to work under the familiar face of Frank Reich.
What makes this such a high need is the fact that there is no future at the position. Both Rivers and Brissett are free agents in 2021 without a clear plan for the future.
Draft Preview
Draft Wire’s Quarterback Rankings
Best Fit: Anthony Gordon, Washington State
There are a lot of solid options for the Colts at the quarterback position such as Jordan Love and Jacob Eason, but Gordon might be the best fit for Indy. He might not possess elite velocity, but Gordon’s ball placement and downfield accuracy make him a strong prospect for the Colts. He needs to sit behind Rivers and under Reich for the 2020 season at least to hone his decision-making, but Gordon is someone to watch for the Colts.
Prospect to Avoid: Jake Fromm, Georgia
There are a lot of traits to like about Fromm. He’s intelligent, accurate and his processing speed is at an NFL level. Those are huge for the Colts. But he lacks a lot of physical traits and downfield prowess, which cap his ceiling. Fromm also didn’t have a knack for making plays outside the pocket, a trait that is becoming a must in today’s game. Fromm can succeed in the right offense—one might even argue the Colts’ system fits well—but his ceiling is far too low as a prospect. Brissett already showed them what a conservative passer looks like in their offense.
Sleeper Prospect: James Morgan, FIU
If the Colts wait until Day 3 to grab a quarterback, Morgan is likely high on the list of targets. He’s had a lot of contact with the Colts and checks many boxes for them including leadership, toughness and arm talent. There’s a lot to clean up in his game both mentally and physically, but Morgan is a name to keep an eye on if the Colts wait.
Most likely selections to use on a quarterback: Nos. 34, 44, 75, 122
Trade up probability: Moderate — If the Colts really like a prospect like Love or even want to get that fifth-year option on a prospect like Eason, they could move up to the back of the first round, but it shouldn’t be a move that is highly anticipated.