Draft Grades: Colts

The Colts may have answered some questions about their confidence with Joseph Addai's ability to stay healthy with their first selection. While Addai is clearly still the feature back in Indy, Brown should get his fair share of touches and will be ready to take over should Addai miss some time as he did in 2008.

The Colts reached for Fili Moala, but there wasn't much left on the board at defensive tackle. Moala fills a serious need and could be forced into action as a rookie. I think he's a little overrated, but he should be an adequate starter.

Jerraud Powers was another reach, and doesn't really fill a need. The Colts need an impact cornerback, but Powers is best suited to play nickelback in the NFL. He'll get lost in the mix with T.J. Rushing, Tim Jennings and Dante Hughes.

I like Austin Collie a lot and think he's a perfect fit in Indy. He'll be given the opportunity to step in as the slot receiver, a roll he's well suited for.

Terrance Taylor had good value in the 4th round and will be given the opportunity to win a starting role. Don't be surprised if the Colts are starting two rookies on the defensive line at some point this season (Taylor and Moala).

The selection of Curtis Painter was decent risk to take in the 6th round. He has the physical tools to play in the NFL, but needs to work on his decision making ability before he's ready to see the field. There isn't a quarterback in the game that I would rather have a prospect learn behind than Peyton Manning, and that could allow Painter to exceed expectations down the line. He should be an adequate backup at worst.

Pat McAfee was a decent late-round selection. He should be able to replace the departed Hunter Smith as the starting punter. He'll likely handle kickoff duties as well.

Jaimie Thomas was a good 7th-round selection. He can play guard or tackle which adds to his value and should allow him to make the team.

Overall the Colts did a nice job addressing their needs. Moala should start from day one and Donald Brown will play a vital role in the offense. Terrance Taylor and Austin Collie also figure to see significant playing time. They have the potential to get a lot of production from this draft class right away.

Grade: B+