The Indianapolis Colts made sure to get the player they wanted at the end of Day 2, regardless of outside perception.
Even though general manager Chris Ballard admitted the selection of cornerback Justin Walley would be considered a reach by others, he was adamant in the team's belief in the Minnesota product.
Still, the selection was a bit questionable given the perception of Walley as an expected Day 3 pick, and Dan Treacy of Sporting News believes Indianapolis failed to get proper value out of the third-round pick.
"Walley was another surprise in the third round, coming off the board at No. 80 overall by the Colts. When meeting with the media, GM Chris Ballard admitted as much, acknowledging to reporters that Walley was widely considered a Day 3 pick but arguing that he doesn't factor in where other teams rank players," Treacy wrote. "It makes sense to go get the player you believe in, but a trade-down would have made more sense here for Indianapolis, as Walley is a project going forward."
The selection of Walley isn't one that Ballard typically makes in terms of the prospect profile. Walley's a bit undersized with short arms, but he had a productive career at Minnesota.
The Colts addressed the cornerback position in free agency with the $54 million signing of Charvarius Ward. He will likely travel with the opposing team's top wide receiver while Kenny Moore II works in the slot.
Walley has inside-outside versatility so the Colts could get some value there if he reaches his ceiling. The depth chart is crowded, though, with JuJu Brents, Samuel Womack and Jaylon Jones also on the roster.
Time will tell whether the Colts reached on this selection, but they certainly hope he can make an immediate impact as a Day 2 pick.