The Indianapolis Colts kicked off the final day of the 2023 NFL draft with some selections of prospects with value and upside, including the addition of defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore.
The Northwestern product was viewed as a bit of a tweener, but most analysts had him projected to go relatively early on Day 2. However, he fell to Day 3, and the Colts scooped him up with the No. 110 overall pick—a selection they received via trade with the Atlanta Falcons.
Projecting to compete at the three-technique defensive tackle position, Adebawore was labeled as one of the top value selections in the fourth round by our friends over at Touchdown Wire.
Though his build isn’t typical for a three-technique at 6-foot-1 and 282 pounds, He has the length, explosiveness, speed and athleticism to be an impact player as a pass rusher. He also was a team captain during his senior season, which shouldn’t come as a surprise at this point.
Adebawore’s development likely will focus on adding counters to his pass-rushing plan. He has a really good rip move that can be effective at the next level. Now, it’s about refining that and adding some other moves to keep blockers guessing.
The rookie will likely fit right into the rotation behind DeForest Buckner, competing with free-agent-signee Taven Bryan and Dayo Odeyingbo when he kicks inside from the edge.
Regardless, the selection of Adebawore is the ideal example of taking a Day 3 shot on an extremely athletic player who could turn into an impact defender in a key part of the game.
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