After being selected by the Indianapolis Colts, Adonai Mitchell shared that on draft day, he was "pissed" that he fell into the 2nd round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
And it played a major factor in his jersey number selection.
Mitchell was the 11th WR taken in the 2024 NFL Draft. Therefore, 10 WRs heard their name called before him in the draft. He told the media he is more focused on the number of WRs taken ahead of him instead of the exact individuals. But here are the ten players drafted ahead of Mitchell that led to him choosing number 10.
1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals (Pick 4)
2. Malik Nabers, New York Giants (Pick 6)
3. Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears (Pick 9)
4. Brian Thomas Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars (Pick 23)
5. Xavier Worthy, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 28)
6. Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 31)
7. Xavier Legette, Carolina Panthers (Pick 32)
8. Keon Coleman, Buffalo Bills (Pick 33)
9. Ladd McConkey, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 34)
10. Ja'Lynn Polk, New England Patriots (Pick 37)
There was a lot of talk of "character concerns" surrounding Mitchell this draft cycle, and it might have been a significant factor in him shockingly falling outside of the top 50 picks. But since being drafted by the Colts, I think he has displayed impressive character and has responded to falling in the draft exactly how one should. That chip on his shoulder is already proving to be a big motivation for the WR.
That extra motivation, paired with Mitchell's obvious talent, could lead to the Colts landing the steal of the 2024 NFL Draft. During the team's rookie minicamp, May 10th-12th, Mitchell shined with his ability to make plays after the catch as well as his ability to make tough catches with his reliable hands. I have been told that the team was very impressed with Mitchell's performance at rookie minicamp.
The next step for Mitchell will be to build off his strong start to his NFL career. And if he can continue to impress once he competes with the veteran members of the Colts secondary instead of his fellow rookies, it could mean Mitchell is in for a significant role during his upcoming rookie season. He might even solidify himself as a day-one starter alongside Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs.
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