Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsSaturday, June 20, 2026

2013 NFL Draft team needs: Indianapolis Colts

The Colts made big strides last year behind Andrew Luck; what do they need to add in the 2013 draft?

Al Bello

Draft_colts__1__medium

The Colts underwent a transformation last year, going from the worst record in the league to a playoff team behind the play of rookie quarterback Andrew Luck. Due to their success, the Colts lost valuable members of their coaching staff and front office, but they have been among the most active teams in improving their roster this offseason.

With tons of cap space, Indianapolis was busy filling roster holes in free agency. In addition to bringing in a lot of new talent, they also parted ways with some of their veterans as the team continues to get younger and build for the future behind Luck. The Colts addressed a lot of their needs in free agency, giving them a little more freedom in the draft.

Top three needs

Guard - The Colts could use help all across the offensive line, but guard is their biggest weakness. They were among the worst teams in the league last season in pass protection and they will need to protect Andrew Luck for many years.

Outside linebacker - Indianapolis will need a replacement for Dwight Freeney, who never fit as well as a 3-4 outside linebacker as he did in the 4-3 defense. They need to improve their pass rush and may look to the draft to add a speed rusher.

Defensive tackle - The transition from 4-3 to 3-4 takes more than a year and the Colts still need to add some pieces along the front line.

Ideal pick: Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina

More from SB Nation:

NFL mock draft: Thursday looms

NFL mock draft: Bloggers select another 7 rounds

The Jaguars reveal their new uniforms Tuesday

NFL draft: Which QB will the Steelers select?

Openly gay kicker wants shot at NFL

What could happen in top 5? Expert predictions

Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenchesSB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenches
Mocking the Draft

This player should be a plug-and-play replacement for Mekhi Becton right off the bat.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31
Mocking the Draft

This guy’s got talent, plus playing with Patrick Mahomes automatically elevates his potential.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30
Mocking the Draft

He’s a bit of a liability in the run game, but his potential in the pass game was enough for Buffalo Rumblings.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pickSB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pick
Mocking the Draft

This pick could help the Commanders build on last year’s excellent season.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan HutchinsonSB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan Hutchinson
Mocking the Draft

It’s a high-potential pick for a Detroit defense that needs a solid pass rusher.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26
Mocking the Draft

This rookie would be a great complement to Jared Verse and Byron Young.

By Michael Peterson