The Indianapolis Colts decided to stay put at No. 21 overall on Thursday night to begin the 2021 NFL draft because one of the top players on their board was available in former Michigan edge rusher Kwity Paye.
Though the Colts will be entering Day 2 with just one pick, it should be expected that Chris Ballard will move back to try to add a Day 3 selection. Regardless, they came away with one of the best prospects in the draft, adding Paye to the young defensive line.
There are still some kinks that Paye needs to work out when it comes to his counters as a pass rusher. But his ability to set the edge will give him the chance to start on early downs and work more on developing those pass-rushing traits with the more opportunities he gets.
The Colts had their choices of Paye, offensive tackles Christian Darrisaw and Teven Jenkins or cornerback Greg Newsome II. Paye was the highest player on the Colts’ board at the time and the offer to move back wasn’t enticing enough to let the Michigan product go.
Entering the draft, the Colts’ biggest need was edge rusher. They are relying on the development of Kemoko Turay and Ben Banogu, two players with a lot of upside but few proven snaps altogether. With Paye now in the mix, the unit has a much better chance of providing consistent pressure from the edge.
Paye is a perfect fit both on and off the field for the Colts. He adds a boost to the biggest need on the roster and has the upside to be a double-digit sack artist from the edge.
This grade is pretty easy.
Grade: A+
[lawrence-related id=58059,58023,58028]