Though the Indianapolis Colts are not focused on the upcoming draft just yet, ESPN rolled out their latest Round 1 projections for the 2024 offseason, courtesy of Jordan Reid.
In these latest projections, the Colts added a potential franchise left tackle with the No. 4 overall pick, selecting Penn State offensive tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu.
A major part of the Colts’ outlook hinges on the development of left tackle Bernhard Raimann. If he builds on his solid second half of the 2022 season and takes the next step, Indy could approach this pick differently. But for the time being, the Colts must add more protection for quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Many scouts believed Fashanu would’ve been the first offensive tackle taken in the 2023 draft, but he opted to return to Happy Valley for another season. He is an explosive and well-balanced tackle with the mirror-and-match ability to handle most edge rushers. He’s still filling out his frame, but Fashanu has the ideal length and strength to generate movement as a run blocker, too.
Potential needs: OT, EDGE, CB
It will be interesting to see how we view the needs of the Colts entering next offseason. So much will take place that it’s nearly impossible to know for sure what their plans will be.
However, it wouldn’t be a surprise if left tackle will be near the top of their priority list. Even if Bernhard Raimann continues to progress, there’s always the possibility they move him to right guard and add an elite prospect at left tackle.
Fashanu is likely to be considered the top offensive tackle prospect in the class if he continues to progress the way he did in 2022 so his name will certainly be one to watch during the upcoming college football season.
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