Ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard offered candid insights into this year’s draft class and the team’s strategic approach.
Ballard acknowledged that while the 2025 draft may not boast a plethora of elite prospects, it compensates with substantial depth, particularly in the second through fifth rounds. He emphasized, “I don’t know if it’s, say, thinner, because there’s some depth… there’s some really good depth.” This perspective aligns with the Colts’ current roster needs, especially considering their 14th overall pick in the first round.
Addressing the quarterback position, Ballard confirmed that Anthony Richardson will face competition for the starting role. Richardson, the 2023 first-round pick, is coming off a challenging season with a 47.7% completion rate. Ballard stated, “It’s gotta be the right guy to create real competition,” indicating the team’s intent to bring in a quarterback who can push Richardson to elevate his game.
In terms of draft strategy, Ballard expressed openness to both trading up and down, depending on the value of available players. He noted, “When we see one that’s in striking distance that we think we can go get, we’ll do it… but it’s got to work out.” This flexibility suggests the Colts are prepared to be aggressive if a standout prospect aligns with their needs .
Positionally, the Colts are focusing on areas such as cornerback, tight end, safety, and offensive line. With the cornerback group plagued by injuries and the tight end position underperforming, the team is looking to bolster these units. Additionally, strengthening the offensive line remains a priority to provide better protection for the quarterback .
In summary, Chris Ballard’s approach to the 2025 NFL Draft reflects a commitment to enhancing the Colts’ roster through strategic selections and fostering competition at key positions. With a focus on depth and positional needs, the team aims to build a more competitive squad for the upcoming season.
