Who did the Indianapolis Colts select in the latest seven-round 2025 NFL mock draft from Pro Football Network?
The theme this offseason for GM Chris Ballard is going to be adding competition throughout the Colts’ roster, and when it comes to doing that, there are quite a few positions that Indianapolis could justify adding to in varying degrees.
The biggest perceived positions of need are at tight end, safety, and cornerback, although the offensive line could be added to that list depending on if Will Fries returns.
Ballard also mentioned that there will be competition at quarterback. I would also add that linebacker, running back, and defensive tackle depth are needs as well.
Ben Rolfe of PFN recently put together a mock draft that didn’t just go one or two rounds, but he went all seven rounds. So let’s break down each of the Colts’ selections.
Pick 14: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
The always popular Tyler Warren selection. It’s a no-brainer selection for the Colts with Warren able to provided much-needed pass-catching help from the tight end position, along with a well-rounded and versatile skill set that can add a different element to the Colts offense.
However, and I know I’m a broken record at this point, but it’s far from a given that Warren will be on the board when the Colts are picking.
“Warren is a versatile offensive weapon whose elite route running, physicality, and yards-after-catch ability make him a nightmare for defenders,” wrote Rolfe. “Warren’s scheme versatility and game-breaking impact make him a potential Day 1 starter with the upside to be in the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year conversation.”
Pick 45: Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
Another big positional need for the Colts. Not only is improved play needed with the Colts’ secondary surrendering big plays too often, but depth is a need here as well with only three players under contract for the 2025 season currently.
Watts has played all over the defensive backfield for Notre Dame, with 226 snaps in the box, 127 from the slot, and 340 as the free safety, according to PFF.
He’s recorded six pressures, made 52 of his 63 tackle attempts, and allowed a completion rate of 54% at 10.4 yards per catch with five interception and three interceptions.
“Putting Watts’ anticipation and ball skills alongside Cross will create a potentially devastating pairing for opposing passing games,” Rolfe wrote. “He is not afraid to get involved when it comes to tackling either, with seven tackles for loss in the last two seasons.”
Pick 80: Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
There are two specific things the Colts need at linebacker: depth with EJ Speed and Grant Stuard free agents, and an added coverage ability–a role Jaylon Carlies could potentially fill.
Carter has graded out well against the run according to PFF’s metrics, while in coverage he’s allowed over 13.0 yards per catch the last two seasons with a completion rate of 63% and three pass breakups. He could potentially be the new SAM linebacker in the Colts’ 4-3 defense.
“He is an explosive mover and an impressive tackler in the open field,” Rolfe wrote. “He can be utilized in coverage and as a tackler in the open field away from the main bulk of the offensive blockers. He is also a solid pass rusher, with his size playing to his advantage at times.”
Pick 116: Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville
Riley was a standout performer at the Senior Bowl. Throughout his career, Riley has had terrific ball production, totaling 15 interceptions and 40 pass breakups. Last season, Riley allowed a completion rate of just 48.5%, 14.1 yards per catch, and quarterbacks had a passer rating of 73.5 when targeting him.
The Colts’ pass defense ranked in the bottom 10 in completion rate, pass breakups, passer rating, and yards per pass allowed, according to Pro Football Reference.
Pick 156: Jonah Monheim, C, USC
The Colts have to bolster their interior depth even if Will Fries does return. Ryan Kelly, Mark Glowinski, and Danny Pinter are all free agents this offseason.
Monheim has played almost 3,000 career college snaps, which includes seeing snaps at every position except for left guard. At center in 2024, Monheim allowed no sacks and 16 pressures over 514 pass-blocking snaps. He was also an above-average run-blocker by PFF’s metrics.
Pick 191: Kyle Monangai, RB, Rutgers
Added reliable depth at running back could help take some of the heavy workload off of Jonathan Taylor’s shoulders over the course of a season. In addition to that, an added pass-catching presence out of the backfield could bring another dimension to the offense as well.
Monangai averaged 5.0 yards per rush on 256 carries this past season, scoring 13 touchdowns, along with not fumbling the ball once. He did not factor all that heavily into the passing game, with just 17 targets in 2024.
Pick 234: Mac McWilliams, CB, UCF
Double-dipping at safety and/or cornerback feels like a must for the Colts.
McWilliams has slot and boundary experience. Lining up mostly on the boundary in 2024, he allowed a completion rate of 56%, just 6.2 yards per catch, with an interception and a pass breakup. His passer rating when targeted was only 70.1.