The Indianapolis Colts ended their run on Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft by trading up for Pittsburgh offensive lineman Matt Goncalves in the third round.
Though adding an offensive lineman wasn’t a priority need, the Colts did need to add depth to the unit from a swing tackle and interior perspective. Goncalves is likely able to provide both for the Colts.
This selection has upside, but it was a bit of a deviation from the norm for Chris Ballard. Goncalves isn’t a bad athlete in the slightest, but he isn’t the typical elite athlete they usually target. Instead, his efficient pass protection and versatility will be his calling cards.
MORE: Why the Colts traded up for Matt Goncalves in NFL Draft
Goncalves may not see a whole lot of playing time right away unless the Colts feel he’s ready to compete with starting right guard Will Fries. There’s even some talk about moving him to center behind Ryan Kelly.
When it comes to the draft grades from NFL experts, there were some mixed reviews.
Colts NFL Draft grades
The Colts make the latest reach for an offensive tackle based on size and strength, but there’s a long way for Goncalves to go to show trusted footwork and athleticism.
Pro Football Focus: Average
A potential swing lineman, Goncalves played both right tackle and left tackle at Pittsburgh and posted a 75.0-plus grade in each of the past two seasons, but his limited lateral agility may make him a guard in the NFL. The Colts value versatility on their offensive line, and Goncalves offers solid depth from day one with the potential to develop into a starter down the road.
Chris Trappaso, CBS Sports: A-
Has the frame to stick on the edge in the NFL. Impressive athlete for his size and makes a concerted effort to sink the pad level to not get out leveraged at the point of attack. Better in pass pro than for the run right now but the traits and nastiness shine.
Charles McDonald, Yahoo Sports: C
Offensive line depth is never a bad thing. Goncalves might be able to play a few positions up front for the Colts, but solid swing tackle is a nice outcome for him
Brent Sobleski, Bleacher Report: C-
Goncalves could be a long-term replacement for (Braden) Smith, who has dealt with injuries and hasn’t played a full season since 2019. However, the Pitt product doesn’t fit Indianapolis’ preferred athletic profile, which makes this selection surprising. Last year’s season-ending injury certainly didn’t help matters.
The third-team All-ACC honoree could slide inside to guard as well and push Will Fries for a starting spot.
Indianapolis moved up three spots to grab Goncalves, who played both left and right tackle at Pitt. Goncalves (6-6, 327) is a powerful mauler who’s more than likely to kick inside in the pros. This was too high for Goncalves, who was projected as a fifth-rounder — and that’s especially true considering the Colts traded up.
Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA TODAY: C+
He provides some versatility, but he might not ever amount to much more than a swing option. For a third-rounder, that’s hardly an ideal return.