Updated: April 1, 2005, 1:27 PM ET
Colts need help on D; Buffalo won't trade up
Mel Kiper's latest mailbag takes a look at how the Colts will bolster their defense and how QB J.P. Losman affects the Bills' draft strategy.
Russ, Tampa, Fla.
I previously projected the Colts to take Florida middle linebacker Channing Crowder at that spot, but his stock is quickly falling into the third-round area thanks to injury/durability concerns. If the Colts still want to go linebacker there, the best option would be Barrett Ruud of Nebraska, but they also need a physical, run-stuffing presence along the defensive line, and Wisconsin defensive tackle Anttaj Hawthorne fits that mold perfectly. His 6-foot-3, 320-pound frame would plug the middle and give the Colts a strong presence up front. Cornerback will also be front and center as a need for the Colts, so look for them to go heavy on defense early in the draft.
To continue reading this article you must be an Insider
- Schefter: On Gary Kubiak's future
- Rumors: Crabtree's plan for SF offense
- Tools: PickCenter | Game Predictor
- Draft: Mel's Big Board (11/18) | NFL draft blog
