With the 2024 NFL Draft fast approaching, let’s take a look at some of the best picks during Ballard’s tenure.
Say what you want about the general manager of the Indianapolis Colts (I know I have), but when it comes to the draft, Chris Ballard has had some serious hits acquiring talent throughout all seven rounds. He isn’t perfect, but with the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday, let’s take a look at some of his highlights.
Quenton Nelson
The pancake maker. To pick a guard sixth overall is crazy. That statement would be true except when it comes to Nelson. Although he has battled back issues, he has been a beast when on the field. His ability to pull and get out in space is a beautiful thing to watch. Never before have fans sought out Youtube clips of a Colts guard, but that all changed with Nelson. Watching him catch a linebacker in the open field spelled game over. Nelson has brought a sense of toughness and has been the ultimate teammate during his Colts tenure.
Grover Stewart
Hitting on first round picks is essential towards having success, but it isn’t that impressive. Finding gems in the fourth round out of Albany State is where the magic happens. On his second extension with the Colts, Stewart has proven to be a stalwart in the middle of the defensive line. His ability to clog up running lanes and his gregarious nature have made him a hit with fans.
Jonathan Taylor
A trade back into the second round was shocking yet shrewd by Ballard. An ankle injury and some offseason drama can’t diminish what Taylor has been able to do on the field. His football IQ is off the charts, and his big play ability is something the Colts hadn’t had for quite some time before he came along. When handing the football to Taylor, there is always a chance something good can happen. Having him back with the team for the next three years should make Colts fans rest easy.
Shaquille Leonard
It doesn’t matter what first name Leonard goes by. Colts fans will forever know him as the Maniac. Panned as one of the worst picks in the 2018 draft, this unknown out of South Carolina State University came to play in a big way. The heart of the defense became an All-Pro for his ability to force turnovers. He could run side to side and was in on almost every tackle. Although injuries ultimately ended his Colts’ career early, they have no impact on his rank as one of Ballard’s best picks.
Zaire Franklin
Seventh round picks barely make the roster let alone place second in overall tackles in the entire NFL. Most fans had turned the television off by the time the 235th pick was made sending Franklin to the Colts. That didn’t deter Franklin from grinding his way to a second contract with the Colts as one of the new leaders of the defense. As Leonard lost a step, Franklin was there to take over. Picks like Franklin are what the draft is all about. Finding the late round diamonds are what separate teams as the seek to complete their rosters.
Michael Pittman Jr.
Pittman has established himself as a number one receiver in the NFL. He has quietly amassed some serious numbers and shown himself to be a reliable target when the team needs to move the ball. There have been times over the last few years that he has seemingly been the only target on the field. All of his production has been accomplished with a revolving door at the quarterback position. All Pittman has done during this time is increase his production. Last year was his best statistical season in catches and yards. If he can boost his touchdown numbers, he has a chance to be an all time great Colt.
Chris Ballard loves his picks, and he has used them to select some top tier talent. The draft is especially important for him as he doesn’t overly engage in free agency and believes in rewarding his own. Those two factors increase the pressure to get the draft right. More times than not, he does. While the above list isn’t 100% comprehensive, it is easy to see that Ballard has done alright. Here’s hoping this is one of his best classes yet.
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