The NFL Scouting Combine kicked off festivities last week with its on-the-field workouts coming from Linebackers and Defensive Line.
Although the event is not meant for drastic changes to draft boards, it is however a great tool to weigh prospects whom one might be close with in evaluation.
From determining fits whether that be on or off the field, this past week was invaluable for all NFL brass members, though it’s historically mattered that much more to Colts GM Chris Ballard and company.
When it comes to the biggest solidifiers of the evening, Alabama’s Dallas Turner and Florida State’s Jared Verse proved themselves as top 20 draft selections. Both with likely be in serious contention for the Colts’ 15th pick in the NFL Draft. However, with an emphasis on non 1st round talent, we’re going to take a look at the 5 biggest risers on Chris Ballard’s draft board from the position groups in question.
Braden Fiske, iDL, Florida State
Braden Fiske would be the ideal Taven Bryan replacement. His roots reside in the state of Indiana (Michigan City product) and his athletic build fits the part.
Fiske checks two of the most important boxes for Ballard and Co. He dominated at the Senior Bowl and posted T-1st RAS (Relative Athletic Score) with a 9.88 score. Coupling that with his Hoosier background, the stars seem to align themselves.
Myles Cole, DE, Texas Tech
Cole profiles as a project piece with untapped potential at hand. He would likely be slated as depth at the edge position initially with the potential to develop into something dangerous within his first few years.
The potential lies within his athleticism, which was the best among all defensive ends at the combine. Cole’s elite 9.96 RAS and Senior Bowl participation have likely rang a bell or two within the Colts’ scouting department.
Ruke Orhorhoro, iDL, Clemson
Similar to Fiske, Orhorhoro offers potential depth at the interior defensively. As a senior, he totaled 5 sacks and 26 pressures with the majority coming from the 3-technique.
Athletically speaking, Orhorhoro tied with Fiske for the highest Relative Athletic Score of the day with 9.88. When it comes to depth and Day 3 Draft selections, this is Ballard’s bread and butter and Orhorhoro fits the criterion for that range.
Edefuan Ulofoshio, LB, Washington
The Colts desperately need consistency in coverage at the linebacker spot and Ulofoshio provides that depth for the room. The senior Huskies backer totaled 77 tackles, 3 sacks, 10 TFLs, and posted a 90.4 coverage grade on Pro Football Focus.
As a prospect, Olufoshio fills every hole that GM Chris Ballard looks for. He was a Senior Bowl participant, a team captain, and posted the best RAS (Relative Athletic Score) among all Combine LBs. The Alaskan native is striving to become the state’s next NFL product and don’t be surprised if Indianapolis is the next stop in his journey.
Jalyx Hunt, EDGE, Houston Christian
Athleticism meets production. The Cornell transfer burst on the scene for the Huskies after transferring, totaling 13.5 sacks across the past two seasons. Although a smaller school product, Hunt possesses the build and ability to be successful at the next level.
Specifically, when it comes to his athleticism, Hunt is top-tier in this regard. He posted a 9.13u RAS while proving to be elite status with explosion and speed. Hunt is 6’3″, 250 lbs, and offers flexibility at the end spot. As a projected Day 3 depth selection, these are the things you bet on in this range.
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