Colts 2023 NFL Draft Class Grade is Out.
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The 2023 NFL Draft class of the Indianapolis Colts did not receive a favorable assessment from NFL.com. Despite having 12 draft picks, including quarterback Anthony Richardson as their top choice at No. 4 overall, the Colts faced challenges, with Richardson’s season ending early due to injury in Week 4.
Despite Richardson’s setbacks, other players like third-round pick Josh Downs made notable contributions, ranking sixth among rookie wide receivers with 771 receiving yards, despite being the 12th receiver chosen.
NFL.com recently evaluated the 2023 NFL Draft classes based on their performance in the previous season. Predictably, the Colts’ grade suffered due to Richardson’s injury, resulting in a “C” grade and a 22nd overall ranking. Chad Reuter of NFL.com highlighted Richardson’s potential as a dual-threat quarterback but expressed concerns about his ability to stay healthy.
In addition to Richardson, second-round pick Julius Brents also faced injury challenges during the 2023 season. Reuter emphasized the need for Brents to have a healthy sophomore campaign to determine his potential as a cornerback for the Colts.
While defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore and cornerback Darius Rush, selected in the fourth and fifth rounds, were considered value picks, their on-field impact was limited. Adebawore recorded just four tackles, and Rush was cut before the season began.
Despite the initial “C” grade, there is optimism for improvement in subsequent seasons, especially if Richardson can maintain good health. The analogy was made that evaluating a draft class after the first season is akin to checking a college grade at Halloween, with ample time remaining to elevate the grade to an “A.”
