There are a few ways the Indianapolis Colts can go about their picks on the Day 2 of the 2020 NFL draft, which is where they will begin their selections. Using one of those picks on a running back hasn’t typically been part of the projections.
That is until Pro Football Focus had the Colts taking arguably the top running back in the class with one of their second-round picks in their latest mock draft. Here’s a look at how the Colts went about their picks:
No. 34 | Michael Pittman Jr. | WR | USC
“Pittman is a far more sudden route-runner than the majority of receivers his size and dropped only five passes over his college career. He offers something the Colts don’t currently have and pairs well with Philip Rivers.” – PFF
Pittman is an excellent fit for the Colts on the boundary and while some might feel it’s a bit early, he would be a wonderful addition to the wide receiver room for Rivers.
No. 44 | Jonathan Taylor | RB | Wisconsin
“Taylor was born to run behind the Colts’ dominant run-blocking offensive line. Give him a full head of steam, and he drags people. He averaged over 1,300 yards after contact per season at Wisconsin.” – PFF
This is where it gets interesting. Taylor would be an amazing fit for the Colts in their offense but with Marlon Mack coming off of a career year, it isn’t clear if Indy wants to spend that high of capital on Taylor. But there is also a question about whether the Colts want to extend Mack as Jim Irsay refuted a report that the team was working on an extension.
Taylor would certainly be a welcome fit in the backfield, but the running back position isn’t an area of concern right now.
No. 75 | Jalen Hurts | QB | Oklahoma
“Philip Rivers isn’t a long-term solution, and Hurts paired with that offensive line would lead to a dominant run game for years to come. Hurts has an “it” factor that you can’t coach and has improved so much every single year.” – PFF
Hurts is one of the top Day 2 prospects the Colts could target at the quarterback position. There is certainly development that needs to take place with his decision-making and timing, but there are plenty of qualities to like in Hurts—a strong leader, mentally tough and a great athlete.