Colts general manager Chris Ballard spoke to the local media on Friday ahead of draft day, and while he didn’t disclose much, there were a few nuggets of information.
Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard held his annual pre-draft press conference on Friday, and there are a few quick takeaways as ‘draft day’ quickly approaches in late April—with the Horseshoe currently holding the 15th overall pick:
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Excited for New Director of Sports Performance Mike Minnis
Ballard mentioned that the Colts hired Mike Minnis from the Eagles to replace Rusty Jones after a long search. Ballard said he really can help make a big difference in the team and the players have been really receptive to what he’s doing.
— Jake Arthur (@JakeArthurNFL) April 19, 2024
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Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images
Jokingly Extended DeForest Buckner to ‘Blow Up’ Twitter
Asked about the cap space created by the DeForest Buckner extension, Chris Ballard deadpans he did it “just to watch Twitter blow up.”
Honest answer is to gain flexibility. #Colts— George Bremer (@gmbremer) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Not Worried About Secondary Being ‘Too Young’
#Colts GM Chris Ballard on his CB room:
“I think they’ve grown up.”
Says he’s not worried about being too young.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Colts Tight End Drew Ogletree is Back with the Team
Chris Ballard revealed TE Drew Ogletree back with team. Had been on Commissioners exempt list after domestic charges. Charges were dropped.
— Mike Chappell (@mchappell51) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Character is the Hardest Piece to Evaluate Among Prospects
#Colts GM Chris Ballard on evaluating prospects:
“The hardest thing is getting the character right.”
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images
This Year’s Draft Class is Offensive ‘Top Heavy’
Ballard says he thinks we’re going to see a lot of offensive players taken early in the first round. Really strong offensive draft at the top.
— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images
Colts Would Consider Trading Up for the Right Player
Chris Ballard says the #Colts would consider trading up for the right player if he’s “in striking distance” and the right trade partner is available.
— George Bremer (@gmbremer) April 19, 2024
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Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB Photos via Getty Images
Chris Ballard Has 19 to 21 Actual First Round Grades
Interesting that GM Chris Ballard noted that his scouting team has around 19 to 21 first round grades this year.
Colts should be well within that range currently sitting at #15 overall.
— Luke Schultheis (@LuckAtLuke) April 19, 2024
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