The season was not supposed to end in Week 17 at Metlife Stadium, but the Colts laid an egg as the Drew Lock led Giants put up 45 points. The game encapsulated the defensive struggles that have been evident for most of the season and, as a result, Gus Bradley will not be retained for 2025. Chris Ballard will have to provide the new DC with a better group of players on all three levels of the defense.
Shane Steichen's job security would have been discussed, but he was always likely to be back for a third season. Anthony Richardson should return as the starting QB even though his self-diagnosed history of
back issues seemed to be news to Steichen. The Colts will have to bring in competition for Richardson, especially as Steichen is on borrowed time, and his tolerance of the young QB is wearing thin.
As suggested, The Draft should prioritize defensive players. Zaire Franklin made the Pro Bowl as the league's leading tackler, but his 60.3 PFF grade would suggest his performance didn't warrant the accolade. However, LB is certainly less of a need than DB, and I'd be surprised if a corner wan't added early.
- David Payne, DraftTek Senior Analyst