Early in the fourth round, the Indianapolis Colts added depth to their offensive line in local product Danny Pinter. Pinter is from South Bend and played collegiately at Ball State University. He went to college as a tight end, switched to offensive tackle, and will likely be a guard for the Colts. Despite starting the same five linemen in every game last year, bringing in more bodies was essential. The law of averages makes it improbable that all five starters stay intact in 2020 as well. Pinter joins Le’Raven Clark, Jake Eldrenkamp, and 2019 draft pick Javon Patterson as the main backups entering minicamp.
[VIDEO] Spring @BallStateFB was at it again this morning. We caught up with new offensive lineman Danny Pinter to discuss his move from tight end. And don't worry, he's already up to 292 lbs! #ChirpChirp pic.twitter.com/EpJIhQ2xh1
— Ball State Sports (@BallStateSports) March 23, 2018
Athleticism
Tipping the scales at 306 pounds does not mean Pinter is slow. Among offensive linemen at the combine in February, he ran the second-fastest 40-yard dash, the third-fastest short shuttle, and the sixth-fastest three-cone drill. That speed shows up on tape: he moves well in space and can change direction with ease. His is not a power game. He will need to hit the weight room in order to hold up against NFL defensive linemen, but his quick feet give him a leg up (no pun intended) heading into his rookie season.
[VIDEO] Spring @BallStateFB was at it again this morning. We caught up with new offensive lineman Danny Pinter to discuss his move from tight end. And don't worry, he's already up to 292 lbs! #ChirpChirp pic.twitter.com/EpJIhQ2xh1
— Ball State Sports (@BallStateSports) March 23, 2018
Positional Home
Even though he was a highly effective tackle in college, Pinter lacks the long frame of typical NFL tackles. His arms are under 32″ long, which would make it harder for him to corral speed rushers dipping under his hip on the edge. By moving inside to guard, he has help on either side and can take advantage of his ability in space on pull blocks. Luckily, the Colts pull their guards as frequently as any team in the league. Putting him in space against a cornerback or safety is a net win for the offense. While he is unlikely to push Mark Glowinski to start at right guard as a rookie, he can contribute to the practice squad for the time being.
Next Steps
The Colts are down to their final two picks, barring a trade back. After picks 182 and 193 in the sixth round, Ballard and company will begin their pursuit of undrafted free agents. Pinter brings depth up front on offense, although the defensive line could use another edge rusher. Michael Pittman added depth and talent to the receiving corps, but another pick there could be in play as well. Might those be the last choices of the Colts’ 2020 draft class? We shall see.
– Jesse Pierson is the Managing Editor of FPC Colts. He covers the Indianapolis Colts and the National Football League. Like and follow on Twitter @jessetpierson Follow @FPC_Colts and Facebook.
