Indianapolis Colts: 2016 7-round NFL mock draft
By John Buhler
If the Colts want to satisfy one of their primary draft needs in acquiring an outside linebacker, it is in Indianapolis’ best interest to target that position in the middle of the third round with their No. 82 overall selection. The Colts should take Ohio State’s Joshua Perry with their third round pick in this spring’s NFL Draft.
Perry may not be one of the most hyped prospects to come out of Urban Meyer’s football program in Columbus, Ohio the last few years, but he was one of the best players on the Buckeyes’ 2014 National Championship team. Perry lead Ohio State in tackles with 124 and is considered “a consummate teammate” by his collegiate football program.
It’s no secret that the 2015 Colts had one of the NFL’s worst linebacker corps and getting a sure-fired tackling machine that plays at only one speed (Go!) in Perry would be a huge get for the Colts at No. 82. While he may end up going as high as the late second round, don’t think for a second that the Colts won’t target him as a potential third round selection this spring.
Perry could come in day one and contend for a starting role in the Colts front seven right away. Pagano may be more of a defensive minded coach, but frankly hasn’t had the players he needs to make Indianapolis an elite defensive team in his tenure. Drafting Perry in the middle of the third round would be an absolute steal for the Colts at No. 82. He projects as a perennial starter and a high-character guy that the Colts can plug into any defensive scheme.
Next: 116. Shawn Oakman, Defensive End, Baylor