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NFL Draft Grades 2018: Indianapolis Colts select Quenton Nelson at No. 6

By Michael Johnson

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson in action during the 2018 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson in action during the 2018 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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The Indianapolis Colts took arguably the safest player in the 2018 NFL Draft not named Saquon Barkley, landing Quenton Nelson to protect Andrew Luck.

The Indianapolis Colts are a team that has a lot of holes on their roster, regardless of side of the ball or anything else. One of the most glaring was along the offensive line. The O-line play has been so bad over the year,s despite the stellar play from their franchise quarterback Andrew Luck — when he’s been on the field, of course.

Sadly, the offensive line was the reason he suffered a shoulder injury and hasn’t played a down since 2016 — and still hasn’t picked thrown a football in his rehab process. The addition of Notre Dame offensive guard Quenton Nelson with the No. 6 overall pick, however, helps that.

Nelson gives the running game a huge boost as he excelled at opening lanes for the backs at Notre Dame. But Nelson also pass blocks exceptionally well and would provide added to help to tackle Anthony Castonzo in pass protection.

New head coach Frank Reich and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus could have used a player on defense to help transition to the 4-3 bas scheme. Ultimately though, it’s all about the quarterback and they must protect their investment better than they have. For now, it’ll be Jacoby Brissett penciled in as the starter while Luck continues to heal up.

Next: NFL Draft 2018: Instant grades and reactions

Marlon Mack should see an increase in carries, yards,and touchdowns now that he’s the feature back and Nelson will make his job and achieving those statistical increases that much easier. The Colts aren’t exactly looking like contenders, but this was a pick they had to make considering the value Nelson brings. He has been talked about as a perennial Pro Bowl talent with All-Pro potential. This was great pick by the Colts. 

Grade: A

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