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2021 NFL Draft: Colts Draft a Reliable Defensive End in Kwity Paye

By Michael Hanich

Oct 20, 2018; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Kwity Paye (19) prepares for the snap of the ball during the second half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2018; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Kwity Paye (19) prepares for the snap of the ball during the second half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /
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After making some changes to the offense, the Indianapolis Colts needed to make a splash on the defensive side of the ball. The Colts were able to find a solid edge defender in Michigan Wolverines defensive end Kwity Paye with the 21st overall pick.

Last year, the Colts made big headlines by addressing a huge need in their defensive line by trading for San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. The Colts’ defense was highly efficient in most areas this past season, but they lacked a solid defender along the edge. Paye isn’t an elite pass rusher as shown by his sack numbers but he is a highly reliable support player.

The Colts’ defense was solid last season as they were ranked 10th in the league in points allowed per game (22.6) and second in rushing yards allowed per game (90.5). The Colts need more solidity in defending against third downs as they have allowed 42% (86-of-203). They have also allowed 16 rushing touchdowns this past season.

Paye is a player that has great size and frame for a run-orientated edge rusher. He also surprises some opposing offenses with his agility to get into the backfield.

The two-time second-team All-Big Ten Conference selection has contributed to some strong defensive performances at Michigan. In the 2019 season, Paye accounted for 50 total tackles, 26 solo tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. This past season, Kwity only played in four games as he accounted for 16 total tackles, 12 solo tackles, four tackles for loss, and two sacks.

Adding a solid defensive end to a talented and stacked defensive line will make going against them in the run and passing game much more difficult. While Paye may not be a player to account for many stats, he can be a player that can be consistent and make the big plays if needed.

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