Colts add S Jaylin Simpson to secondary in 5th round

The Indianapolis Colts selected Auburn safety Jaylin Simpson in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 164 overall.

Simpson recorded 36 tackles, four interceptions, and three pass breakups in his final season at Auburn.

Indianapolis used two of its three third-round picks to add depth at the back half of the defense; Simpson joins Jaylon Carlies among additions to the secondary.

The Colts have made an effort to strengthen their defense, having selected Laiatu Latu with their first-round pick.

Pre-draft profile

Simpson is severely undersized, which makes him a difficult prospect to imagine building a long career in the pros. However, his talent and athleticism are hard to deny when watching his tape. The Auburn safety just has a knack for getting to the football. A true ballhawk, Simpson not only identifies routes quickly, but his click-and-close speed is impressive to watch. A cornerback turned safety, Simpson can also play in the slot. Though his measurables list every reason why Simpson won't translate to the NFL, his fluid movement and ball skills will do everything to challenge that.