Going behind the scenes for an insider’s view of the Indianapolis Colts is always an anticipated event. Hearing from Chris Ballard and the scouts is worthwhile as they sort through the lengthy draft process. This year’s version is “The Draft Plan”. While it is certainly worth the watch, it’s hard to not be a bit skeptical of all the excitement. Year after year, clapping and high-fives fill the room, but ten years into Ballard’s tenure, the results aren’t there.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Ballard has
had some huge hits in the draft. He has found All-Pros, Pro Bowlers, and diamonds in the rough. He may very well have found the rookie class that will save his job this year. If you’ve watched this type of series in the past, you understand every pick is seen as a “dawg” and someone everybody was super high on. If you go back and look at the tape from years past, though, a lot of those “blue chip” players have fallen short.
Look, I get being excited to get your guy and thinking they will make a difference. The Colts wouldn’t make the pick if they didn’t like them. I also understand there will be plenty of misses even by the best GMs. My point is that watching this year’s installment, I have tepid hope. C.J. Allen and A.J. Haulcy look like the real deal. I like the Jalen Farmer pick too. Watching Coach Tony Sparano Jr. get fired up is what it’s all about. I guess I have just seen it too often and been disappointed with the end result: think Kwity Paye and Anthony Richardson to name a few.
I honestly like the draft class the Colts put together. With no first-round pick, they did a strong job. I simply have to look at this through the lens of skepticism to avoid being burned again. Chris Ballard has gotten some great players into the building during his tenure. While I may have my doubts about this year’s version of “The Draft Plan”, I hope I’m proven dead wrong in three years. Looking back at others, however, I have doubts I will be.
