Indianapolis Colts Team Needs
By: Staff

The Indianapolis Colts have become one of the model franchises in the National Football League. Nothing more than an also ran before names like Manning, Harrison and James showed up, the Colts have one of the top front offices and one of the most respected head coaches in the game. Not surprisingly, half of their last ten number one draft picks have gone to play in at least one Pro Bowl. Few teams have used the draft more effectively than the Colts in recent years, and they will need to continue that trend to remain a successful franchise.

Running Back
Basically the Colts have to decide between keeping Edgerrin James or Reggie Wayne. The outcome of that decision is anyone’s guess at this point, but history shows us that it takes a lot less time for backs to assimilate to the NFL than it does for receivers. This draft is also better stocked with running backs than it is with wide receivers. My guess is that the Colts will let James walk and resign Wayne who has been outstanding playing opposite Marvin Harrison. The Colts are not likely to land any of the top three backs in this draft (Bush, Williams, Maroney) without trading up. LenDale White, whose stock is soaring after the Rose Bowl, would certainly have to interest the Colts, but he may be gone early on as well. There are a few backs in the second tier which may pique their interest but the team already has Dominic Rhodes who has proven he can carry the load if need be. Joseph Addai, DonTrell Moore and Jerome Harrison are all smallish backs but may be on the Colts list later on in this draft.

Linebacker
Cato June is another possible free agent this off season that the Colts will have to make a decision on. Either way, Indy may look for some reinforcements at the linebacker position. Former number one pick Rob Morris was demoted to the second team earlier this season and the team seems to be in good hands with his replacement Gary Brackett. This could be here the Colts look with their first pick, because this draft is loaded with excellent linebacker prospects. Indianapolis should have their choice of some very good talent. Names like Bobby Carpenter, Spencer Havner, Thomas Howard and Patrick Willis could all be available late in the first round when they go on the clock.

Wide Receiver
Although this is a shallow crop this season, Indy could look at a receiver prospect later in the draft. This would especially apply if the team chose to let Wayne go instead of James. Marvin Harrison is still at the top of his game but will also be 34 years old at the start of next season. Brandon Stokley may be the top number three receiver in the NFL and would most likely become a starter if Wayne were to leave. If the Colts do decide to choose a wide receiver they could have their choice of Martin Nance, Santonio Holmes, Hank Baskett or Derek Hagan.

Depth
Any team sending seven starters to the Pro Bowl is pretty well set. The Colts will be looking to add depth in the later rounds of this draft and, like all teams, searching for the “steal” of the draft class. Cornerback, offensive line and fullback are areas where the Colts will most likely be looking to draft on day two in search of that depth.

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