NFL Mock Draft 2020: Way-too-early look at projected first round

Smart drafting, and the return of Andrew Luck, has lifted the Colts out of the AFC cellar and into contention in the conference. Indianapolis made a surprising playoff run last season, and even won a game over the rival Texans in the Wildcard round. They’ll now be looking to take the next step into AFC contention.

The Colts came away with another good draft haul, and will be going for a three-peat in 2020. One of their primary needs next year might be to get younger in their pass rush. Jabaal Sheard and Justin Houston are both going to be on the wrong side of 30 by the time the 2019 season kicks off, and Sheard’s contract will be up after next season while Houston recently signed a two year contract to come to Indianapolis.

Even if both are retained, adding a young player who can eventually be their replacement makes sense. With Jachai Polite and CeCe Jefferson out of the way, Jabari Zuniga’s time is now in Gainesville.

Zuniga has had a productive career for the Gators already, but he could see his numbers rise even further next season. He’s coming off of a year with 11 tackles-for-loss and 6.5 sacks. A double-digit sack season could see him elevated into the first round range in 2020, and might be necessary as Florida looks to replace Polite’s production.

Zuniga has the size to play across schemes. He could be a stand-up edge rusher in a 3-4 or put his hand in the dirt in a 4-3.