HICKS: Zach's FINAL Indianapolis Colts Predictive Mock Draft

Locked On Colts - Daily Podcast On The Indianapolis Colts33mApril 21, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this final predictive mock draft for the Indianapolis Colts, Zach Hicks of horseshoehuddle.com delivers a highly strategic, trade-heavy approach that reflects Chris Ballard's known preferences for height, weight, speed, and production. The Colts trade back in rounds two and three to accumulate additional picks, landing defensive end Deni Dennis Sutton from Penn State at 63rd overall—a player with elite athleticism and a perfect NFL combine score. They then select wide receiver Bryce Lance from North Dakota State at 84th after a trade with Green Bay, followed by linebacker Keyshawn Elliott from Arizona State at 95th, targeting a high-character, production-driven inside linebacker. In later rounds, Hicks adds offensive lineman Cage Casey (Boise State), linebacker Jack Kelly (BYU), safety Robert Spears Jennings (Oklahoma), cornerback Charles Demings (Stephen F. Austin), defensive tackle David Gusta (Kentucky), and interior offensive lineman Delby Lemieux (Dartmouth). The draft emphasizes depth, value, and fit over reach, with several picks designed to compete for roster spots and fill specific positional needs. Hicks acknowledges some picks were made higher than ideal due to projected demand, but believes the overall class fits the Colts' identity and long-term vision. The episode concludes with a strong emphasis on team culture, player development, and the importance of competition. Hicks highlights the value of players like Jack Kelly and Robert Spears Jennings, who may not be stars but could thrive in special teams or rotational roles. He also notes the strategic trade of Kenny Moore II to acquire additional picks, reducing the Colts' total draft count to nine. The mock draft reflects a blend of realism and optimism, with a focus on building a resilient, versatile roster through smart trades and targeted selections. The hosts express excitement for the upcoming draft weekend, promising continued coverage and community engagement through the Everydayer Club.

Key Takeaways
1

The Colts trade back in rounds two and three to accumulate additional picks, prioritizing value and depth over early selections.

2

Deni Dennis Sutton (Penn State) is a high-upside edge rusher with elite combine numbers and a perfect score across all metrics.

3

Bryce Lance (North Dakota State) fits the Colts' height-weight-speed profile and has strong contested catch ability.

4

Keyshawn Elliott (Arizona State) is a production-driven linebacker with high character and a strong fit for the Colts' defensive culture.

5

The draft includes multiple value picks in rounds five and six, including Jack Kelly (BYU) for special teams and Robert Spears Jennings (Oklahoma) as a box safety.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & Sponsor: The Everydayer Club

Introduction to the Locked On Colts podcast and promotion of The Everydayer Club, offering ad-free episodes, members-only chat, and access to national discussions.

1:40
3 min

Final Mock Draft Setup & Trade Strategy

Jake Arthur and Zach Hicks introduce the final mock draft, with Zach emphasizing his trade-heavy approach to maximize picks and align with Chris Ballard’s draft philosophy.

5:00
5 min

Round 2: Deni Dennis Sutton (Penn State)

He was the only perfect score across the board in the entire draft. Hit every single measurable size length, every athletic trade, very productive in college played a lot of football.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Round 3: Bryce Lance (North Dakota State) & Keyshawn Elliott (Arizona State)

I think he checks every Ballard box. And I think that second is going to like the contested catch and the athleticism as well.

Highlight
15:00
5 min

Round 4: Cage Casey (Boise State) & Round 5: Jack Kelly (BYU)

The Colts select offensive lineman Cage Casey in round four, a reliable, durable player with strong hands. In round five, they take linebacker Jack Kelly, a speed and toughness specialist ideal for special teams and situational roles.

High-Impact Quotes
He was the only perfect score across the board in the entire draft. Hit every single measurable size length, every athletic trade, very productive in college played a lot of football.
Zach Hicks4:29
Viral: 90.0
I think he could be like a much higher value player. So I like that one quite a bit. I think he fits exactly what they've been looking for all offseason really.
Zach Hicks20:08
Viral: 85.0
I think at center it's more so about how you move and how you react to strength rather than being like this pure muscle center that can move guys.
Jake Arthur30:12
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

Jake ArthurRoss Jackson

Guest

Zach Hicks
Topics Discussed
Colts Draft Strategy95%Linebacker Depth and Production92%Trade Backs and Pick Accumulation90%Edge Rusher Needs88%Wide Receiver Depth85%Special Teams and Speed-Toughness Profile80%Small School and Undrafted Value78%Center and Interior Offensive Line75%
People & Brands

Zach Hicks

person

45xPositive

Jake Arthur

person

38xPositive

Chris Ballard

person

22xPositive

Deni Dennis Sutton

person

18xPositive

Bryce Lance

person

15xPositive

Keyshawn Elliott

person

12xPositive

Penn State

organization

12xPositive

Jack Kelly

person

11xPositive

Robert Spears Jennings

person

10xPositive

Cage Casey

person

10xPositive

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