With 19-21 first round grades, don’t be surprised if the Colts trade back in the draft

The Colts feel pretty good about their positining in the upcoming draft.

When the 2024 NFL Draft kicks off next Thursday, the Indianapolis Colts feel they are in a good spot. There are several reasons for Chris Ballard and the rest of his unit to feel positive. Normally, they are entering the draft having not seriously addressed the quarterback situation, usually relying on a bandage to get them by instead of having the long term answer on the roster. Anthony Richardson checks that box in a big way. Additionally, the Colts have the fifteenth overall pick, yet according to Ballard, they have between 19-21 players graded as first round selections.

It isn’t a secret that Ballard loves draft picks. The more chances he has at the board, the higher percent chance of finding that difference maker. Although each team starts off with seven picks per draft to wheel and deal with, Ballard loves to stock up. Something tells me that if he and his scouts believe there are at least 19 players with first round grades that a trade back seems like an extremely likely scenario.

A trade up doesn’t seem in the cards as Ballard has stated that it takes two to make a deal. Whether that means they have explored that option and no team above them is willing to trade back or perhaps the Colts are the team that aren’t open to moving, a trade up is extremely unlikely. There isn’t even a clear consensus as to whom the Colts will target in this year’s draft. Many are begging for a cornerback, but Ballard believes his current young core has “grown up”. They gained valuable experience and are no longer young guns according to the GM. That doesn’t sound good for the pro-defensive back crowd.

While it always matters who falls and what grade the Colts assign a particular player, trading back seems to make the most sense. It will be an easy chance to gain some serious draft capital without totally missing out on a prospect with a first round grade. Ballard’s track record is mixed regarding whether to trade or not to trade his first round pick, but if you are feeling lucky, place your bet on the Colts to move back in the first round.