Adonai Mitchell: From Fastest Wide Receiver to Second-Round Pick

The 2024 NFL Draft saw Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell go from being one of the fastest prospects to one of its fastest fallers. Despite high expectations of being a late first-round pick, Mitchell ended up being the 11th wide receiver taken when the Indianapolis Colts selected him 52nd overall in the second round.

Mitchell’s disappointment was evident in his first interview with Colts reporters, where he expressed being “pissed” about his draft slide. However, he also expressed gratitude towards the Colts and his readiness to get to work.

The young receiver had a standout season at Texas, posting 845 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. Known for his speed, Mitchell impressed scouts with a 4.34 40-yard dash and an 11-foot, 4-inch broad jump during the pre-draft process. Despite concerns about his discipline and effort, some experts ranked him as a top prospect in the draft.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard vehemently defended Mitchell against anonymous reports criticizing him as a bad interview with teams, calling it “bulls***” and expressing his support for the young player.

Mitchell now joins a talented offensive core in Indianapolis, including players like Anthony Richardson, Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr., and Josh Downs. With a GM willing to stand up for him, Mitchell has found a supportive landing spot to start his NFL career.