Breaking down Colts picks in latest 4-round 2025 NFL mock draft

Following the NFL's free agency frenzy, which included the Indianapolis Colts making some splash signings in the secondary, Chad Reuter of NFL.com put together his latest four-round mock draft.

So, taking into account the signings made and the needs that still remain, let's break down the Colts' selections in Reuter's mock.

Pick 14: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

Tight end was the one pressing need the Colts had entering free agency that wasn't addressed. This shouldn't come as a surprise, however, given that this year's free agent class at that position wasn't very strong, while the draft is loaded with talent.

Loveland would add that needed pass-catching presence to the offense. He can line up in the slot or out wide and can attack all levels of the field, and do so in a variety of ways. That skill set at the tight end position can help open up opportunities for others in the offense as well.

"In terms of play style, Loveland is more comparable to 2024 first-round pick Brock Bowers than Tyler Warren," wrote Reuter. "The Michigan product missed a chunk of last season with a shoulder injury, but the Colts could see a weapon who can win with size, quickness and savviness against defensive backs and linebackers."

Pick 45: Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State

With Day Odeyingbo in Chicago, the Colts do have a lot of production to replace after he led the team in pressures last season. Hopefully, a step forward in Year 2 from Laiatu Latu and the return of Samson Ebukam can provide that--although it does often take time for a player to return for form after an Achilles injury--but bolstering the pass rush depth is never a bad idea, especially after losing Odeyingbo.

Sawyer was one of the more productive pass rushers this past season, totaling 64 pressures and 10 sacks, according to PFF. He also graded out well against the run.

Pick 80: Tate Ratledge, OG, Georgia

Depth is very much a need along the interior with Will Fries in Minnesota. I also don't think it's a bad idea to have competition for Matt Goncalves at right guard versus assuming the former offensive tackle can just step into that role.

Ratledge is an experienced player and has been very good in pass protection, allowing just 18 pressures and two sacks over three seasons at Georgia. He's also graded out well as a run-blocker.

Pick 117: Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson

Who is going to start next to Zaire Franklin this season? Perhaps Jaylon Carlies can be that player, but it shouldn't be assumed either. It's that type of decision-making that led to GM Chris Ballard calling his roster construction approach last season a "mistake." Adding competition at linebacker should be on the to-do list. Ideally, the Colts bring in an additional coverage presence at the position.

Carter has graded out well against the run, according to PFF's metrics, while in coverage, he's allowed over 13.0 yards per catch the last two seasons with a completion rate of 63% and three pass breakups. He's also found success as a blitzer.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2025 NFL draft: Breaking down Colts picks in 4-round mock