The Indianapolis Colts began the second day of the 2023 NFL draft with a focus on accumulating more picks and talent.
First, they traded back from No. 35 to No. 38, adding an extra fifth-rounder (No. 141) in the process. They made another trade from No. 38 to No. 44, picking up an extra fourth-rounder (No. 110) along the way.
With only one defensive back taken before the selection at No. 44, the Colts were spoiled for choice with many great corners still on the board.
General manager Chris Ballard and staff decided on Julius Brents, a cornerback out of Kansas State to fill a huge need on the defense. Brents, a local product originally from Warren Central will be staying in Indy as a perfect fit for this Colts defense.
In terms of the depth chart this season, the cornerback spot was a bit of a question mark heading into the draft. Brents provides quite a bit of clarity to that question as he brings great length and speed to fit perfectly in Gus Bradley’s scheme.
Brents played quite a bit on the outside and has the athleticism to match up one-on-one, and he has the physicality to come down and make a hit in more of a zone option look.
Expect Brents to compete for a starting spot immediately on the outside opposite Isaiah Rodgers Sr. or another veteran they may sign in free agency.
This will allow Kenny Moore II to remain the primary nickel corner option, a spot where he excels in coverage.
While this might not be the last addition to the secondary in this draft, it’s another exciting pick for an Indianapolis team looking to right the ship in 2023.
