Colts’ defense gets what it needs with Day 2 picks

TL;DR

The Indianapolis Colts focused on strengthening their defense with Day 2 draft picks, selecting linebacker C.J. Allen and safety A.J. Haulcy. Both players are expected to enhance the team's speed and physicality on defense.

Key points

Colts focused on defense in Day 2 of the draft
C.J. Allen was selected at pick 53
A.J. Haulcy was selected at pick 78
Both players aim to increase speed and physicality
Colts moved on from older players like Zaire Franklin

Indianapolis ColtsC.J. AllenA.J. HaulcyZaire Franklin

Sep 23, 2023; Athens, Georgia, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker C.J. Allen (33) tackles UAB Blazers running back Jermaine Brown Jr. (1) during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

With no first-round pick, Chris Ballard had to focus in and nail his selections. The Indianapolis Colts faded down the stretch and much of the blame falls on the shoulders of an older, slower defense. The idea was to become younger and faster through the draft. When you draft rookies and move on from players like Zaire Franklin and Kenny Moore II, it’s pretty easy to do both. No knock on those two, but the consensus is that the Colts got some good talent on Day 2.

C.J. Allen is ready to go to work and has already proclaimed that the Colts got “a dawg”. Some had him as a first-round talent with the consensus being he could go around pick 35. Ballard must have liked his chances because he moved back in the second round and chose Allen at 53. The Colts love his physicality and think he can be the leader of the defense. His immediate goal should be taking over for Franklin, starting on Day 1, and increasing the speed and physicality on that side of the ball.

In the vein of physical thumpers, the Colts continued to bolster their defense by selecting A.J. Haulcy from LSU to provide much-needed safety depth. Coming in at 56th on the big board, the Colts were able to nab him at 78th. There is work to do but the Nick Cross comparisons are starting. Haulcy has the ability to race into the box and put someone on the ground. He will be a great addition to take this defense to the next level.

Q&A

Who did the Colts draft on Day 2 to improve their defense?

The Colts drafted linebacker C.J. Allen and safety A.J. Haulcy to enhance their defensive lineup.

What position does C.J. Allen play and what are his expected contributions?

C.J. Allen plays linebacker and is expected to take over for Zaire Franklin, bringing speed and physicality to the defense.

How did the Colts acquire A.J. Haulcy in the draft?

The Colts selected A.J. Haulcy at the 78th pick, despite him being ranked 56th on the big board, indicating a strategic move to bolster their safety depth.