The Colts get their potential right tackle of the future here, but is this actually the right play value-wise?
According to NFL.com Next Gen Stats’ Mike Band, the Indianapolis Colts will make a potential surprise pick with the 14th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Ohio state offensive tackle Josh Simmons:
14. Indianapolis Colts
Josh Simmons
Ohio State · OT · Junior (RS)
If Tyler Warren is available at No. 14, I don’t think GM Chris Ballard hesitates to pick him, but in this mock, the Bears already scooped him up. Colston Loveland could also be an option at tight end, but draftnik Tony Pauline says there was plenty of buzz on the pro-day circuit that Ballard — who historically prioritizes premium positions in Round 1 — could target an offensive tackle with Indianapolis’ first pick. Medical evaluations will play a huge role in whether the Colts deem Simmons — coming off a patellar tendon injury — worthy of a top-15 selection.
PROBABILITIES OF FIRST POSITION DRAFTED: TE (39%), OL (21%), S (12%)
“The 6’5,” 317 pound redshirt junior (with 33” arms) started 6 games for the College Football Playoff National Champion Ohio State Buckeyes before missing the team’s final 10 games because of a torn patellar tendon in his left knee—still earning 3rd-Team All-Big Ten honors.”
Here’s his scouting report from NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah:
“Simmons is a gifted left tackle prospect. He was having an outstanding 2024 campaign before suffering a season-ending knee injury in October. He has excellent size, movement skills and balance. In the passing game, he has a smooth/fluid set. He can easily redirect and plays with a wide/firm base. He uses a sharp punch before steering and controlling defenders. He will overset on occasion, but he’s nimble enough to redirect and recover. In the run game, he plays under control, stays on his feet and maintains leverage/position. He can adjust in space on combos. The main question with Simmons is health. What he put on tape this fall should generate plenty of optimism about his chances of becoming a quality starting left tackle in the NFL.”
If neither of the top tight ends are there—especially Penn State’s Tyler Warren, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Colts take their starting right tackle of the future—and Simmons has the athleticism, footwork, and physical tools to be a solid right bookend in time.
Specifically, veteran starting right tackle Braden Smith has dealt with availability concerns and is entering the last year of his current Colts contract, which was recently restructured.
While 2nd-year swing-tackle Matt Goncalves held his own at right tackle as a rookie, he could be the upcoming starter at right guard—or perhaps better served as depth as the team’s top swing-tackle again.
At any rate though, coming off the season-ending left knee injury, Simmons being selected here near midway through the first round would be a bit of a reach. He’s currently projected to be a later first round pick or early 2nd round pick (*as Jeremiah’s 37th best ranked overall prospect). If the Colts like him enough, they may be better served trading down a few slots.