NFL Mock Draft 2015: Indianapolis Colts Select Eric Kendricks

Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA

Run defense. That's the buzzword that's been used to describe the Colts this entire offseason. You can't win in New England without being able to stop the run. Now, Kendricks may not seem like the ideal answer in regards to shoring up the run defense, but hear me out. Having Kendricks in the fold would allow D'Qwell Jackson to focus on going downhill, leaving the majority of the pass defense to Kendricks. Kendricks is one of, if not the best coverage linebackers in the draft. Kendricks is very comfortable covering running backs, and carrying the seam. Adding Kendricks would allow the other linebackers (Jackson and Freeman) to play to their strengths.

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Looking at the Colts roster, I felt that defense would be a priority. From the defensive line, to another corner, to upgrades at safety, all positions were looked at. But, with the off-season moves that Ryan Grigson has made, Kendricks made the most sense to me. I think a safety like Damarious Randall could also be an option, or continue to fortify the defensive line with someone like Preston Smith or Hendry Anderson. The way the board fell, Kendricks was my highest rated player available, and he also fit a need. Getting a Butkus award winner, who some rank as the #1 linebacker at pick 29, who would help everyone on your defense? Sounds good to me.

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