INDIANAPOLIS – It took some time, but the Colts' edge presence in this year's draft class came in Round Seven.
Trevor Bates, outside linebacker from Maine, brings 19.0 sacks to the Colts in joining a veteran outside linebacker room.
The pick of Bates gave the Colts four defensive selections in 2016.
Getting To Know Trevor Bates-Why Bates?
The Colts did some extensive homework on the 6-2 and 245-pound edge rusher. Bates had a top-30 visit to Indianapolis and the Colts were one of 10 teams to attend the Maine Pro Day. In four years at Maine, Bates had 19.0 sacks as a defensive end. Bates did have 1.5 sacks in two games against Division I competition this season.-Need For Pass Rush
Coming into the draft, the Colts had three outside linebackers with NFL experience. Robert Mathis, Trent Cole and Erik Walden are all at least 30 years old and all are entering the final season of their respective contracts. Bates is going to have plenty of experience to absorb in a room with more than 200 career sacks.-Serious Colts Interest
It took until the seventh round, but the Colts added a pass rusher in this year's draft class. Bates said the Colts were one of the most active teams in their pursuit of him. The Colts have found impact pass rushers before on the final day of the draft and Bates should have a great shot at a roster spot with no proven bodies behind the three names above.
