Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins has crept into a recent mock 2024 NFL Draft and the Indianapolis Colts are in the market for talent in the secondary. One of the most glaring issues for the Colts defense last season was ineptitude in the secondary. The good news, however, is that rookie sensation JuJu Brents will be back at cornerback. Rookie hopeful Jaylon Jones will be back as well. There is some uncertainty about whether or not veteran Kenny Moore II will be back with the Colts, but all rumors indicate that he will get a contract extension. This leaves room for one more cornerback to be a part of this active roster.
It was reported that cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. had been signed to a future contract with the Colts. However, while he is a solid cornerback, he is better served as a depth piece rather than a starter. This is where the Indianapolis Colts selecting a top cornerback like Nate Wiggins can come into place. They need playmakers in the secondary, and Wiggins is a guy who can impact a defense.
Why the Indianapolis Colts Should Consider Nate Wiggins at Cornerback
He is a Standout Cornerback from Clemson
Nate Wiggins is a 6-2, 175-pound playmaker who spent three years at the University of Clemson. Playing in the ACC, Wiggins had to go up against quarterbacks like top 2024 prospect Drake Maye and solid 2024 prospect Jordan Travis. In 10 games played in the 2023 season, Wiggins had 23 solo tackles, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions (including a pick-six). He also had six passes defended and one sack. In the year prior, he had 25 solo tackles and 13 passes defended which ranked second in all of the ACC. He was also selected to the First Team All-ACC in 2022 and 2023. It should also be noted that he only allowed 18 receptions on 41 targets for one touchdown in 2023.
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine ended on March 3rd and some notable moments happened for Wiggins. During the 40-yard dash, he posted the best time for all defensive backs with a 4.28-second dash. Oddly enough, he would also post 10-yard splits of 1.59 seconds which is not very fast. All things considered, though, Wiggins has speed, and speed is what teams need in the secondary. Unfortunately, this performance would come at a cost because he would suffer a hip flexor injury. According to reports, Wiggins expects to be ready for his Pro Day on April 6th.
His Fit Within the Colts Secondary
As mentioned earlier, the Colts have a young secondary with only one veteran, Kenny Moore II. There is great potential that Chris Ballard will explore the free agent market and pick up another veteran. However, it cannot be overlooked when a talent like Nate Wiggins is available. The Colts’ secondary is young, but it should not be considered a hindrance as JuJu Brents has proven that he can play at a high level and Jaylon Jones possesses the potential to play at a high level.
The plan in place for Indy is to get this broken secondary back together. One key to helping build around a young quarterback, which the Colts have in Anthony Richardson, is to shore up the defense, especially the secondary. The Colts have an opportunity to do that in the 2024 NFL Draft with Nate Wiggins.
Main Photo: [Tommy Gilligan] – USA Today Sports
