With The First Pick
Fansided

2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

By Maxwell Ogden

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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3. player. 46. . Offensive Guard. Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Quenton Nelson

With Bradley Chubb off the board, the Indianapolis Colts are put in something of a bind. Trading back could make sense here, and Saquon Barkley is undeniably appealing, but the Colts have a chance to add a franchise cornerstone at No. 3 overall.

It’s not the sexiest pick imaginable, and Barkley is captivating in theory, but the Colts have an abysmal offensive line and Quenton Nelson is a can’t-miss prospect.

The dreadful defense needs to be addressed, but the Colts have no bigger issue than an inability to protect Andrew Luck. Luck’s injuries are as much a result of Indianapolis’ negligence as any concern that he might be injury-prone, as the poor offensive line that hasn’t seemed to improve.

Anthony Castonzo is a fine player at left tackle, but the Colts desperately need to improve along the interior of the offensive line and at right tackle.

Nelson is the No. 2 player on my big board and the best fit for the Colts with Chubb off the board. He can help Indianapolis establish a run game, keep Luck upright, and play guard, center, or even right tackle as one of the most polished and committed prospects in quite some time.

More than anything: Nelson should emerge as a leader in the locker room who can both change the culture and keep Luck on his feet.

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