2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
Dec 5, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back T.J. Logan (8) carries the ball as Clemson Tigers defensive end Shaq Lawson (90) tackles during the second quarter in the ACC football championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
26. Indianapolis Colts (6-7)- Shaq Lawson, Edge, Clemson
The Indianapolis Colts have had one of the toughest years of any team in the NFL. They have good talent across the roster and were hoping the few offseason moves they made would put them over the edge. This team went from having Super Bowl aspirations to fighting for a playoff spot.
Andrew Luck’s injury absolutely played a role in the Colts struggles, but they also have holes on the offensive line and defense.
Defensively, the Colts lack an elite edge rusher who commands attention. Bjoern Werner’s inability to live up to his 1st-round status and the aging of Robert Mathis really derailed the Colts long-term plan. They now need to use some resources this offseason to fix this problem.
Clemson’s Shaq Lawson is a talented pass rusher who can get after the quarterback in multiple ways. He has enough quickness to attack the edge, features a good inside counter move and can push the pocket with a power rush.
Indianapolis also needs to take a long look at the available offensive line prospects. They have issues at right tackle, both guard spots and center. Ohio State’s Taylor Decker makes a ton of sense at this point in the 1st round.
Next: No. 27 Green Bay