Travis Long and the NFL: Indianapolis Colts
By Josh Davis
Indianapolis Colts
Stacked Against the Pick:
Aug. 26, 2011; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts helmet seen on the sidelines against the Green Bay Packers at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory credit: Michael Hickey-USA TODAY Sports
A litany of linebackers congest the Colts middle. It’s tough to pick out a whole lot of names that are guaranteed a spot, but the battle could be overly crowded with 14 backers trying for 7 or 8 spots. On top of that, needs may dictate that linebacker isn’t a primary upgrade-needy position.
The Perfect Storm:
Another team that could look at Long as a weak-side end in pass situations. Only 3 defensive ends dot the current roster so they’ll be looking for at least a couple in the draft. Always nice to add a piece to the puzzle and cover another piece as well, so Long would not only add to the defensive end position, he could add yet another backup at linebacker, which would be a good value pick for the Colts.
Since the loss of Dwight Freeney, the Colts haven’t got to the quarterback very much. Long totaled 9+ sacks last season, mind you, so he’s at least a slight upgrade for the position and would be a terrific last addition in this case. I could see him here, just as well as not.
Likelihood of Getting Drafted by Colts:
B- Tough to think that late they wouldn’t take a strong look at this kid in the 6th or 7th if he’s still around)