The Indianapolis Colts added a potential starter to their offensive line with Matt Goncalves.
The Colts have been obsessed with the trenches since Chris Ballard became the general manager, always looking to add talent and depth to the offensive line. After Ballard spoke at his pre-draft presser last week, it was all but certain the Colts would do the same this year.
"The expectations were to go third to fourth round and I kind of hit that on the dot a little bit," Goncalves explained."I'm very happy with where I landed. Coach Partridge heading over to Indy, probably put in a good word for me. I thought that this transition, this whole process, it was a lot but I really enjoyed it. It was kind of unexpected, the call that I got, but it's unbelievable. A dream come true.
If you had asked Goncalves to list his likely landing spots before the draft, the Colts would not have been on the list. But the Colts stayed in communication with the 6-6, 327-pound offensive lineman throughout the process. Offensive line coach Tony Sparano Jr. was particularly high on Goncalves, pushing the Colts to add him to the unit. Sparano's persistence paid off.
Before the 2023 season began, Goncalves was largely seen as a top-50 pick in this year's draft. However, he suffered a left foot injury three games into his senior season, requiring season-ending surgery. The injury did not allow Goncalves to work out until his pro day at Pitt, but he is confident the foot is finally healed and ready to go.
When you ask Goncalves where he prefers to play, he does not care. He is a ball player who wants to help his team win, no matter where he lines up.
NFL Draft Matt Goncalves Pitt Panthers Chris Ballard Tony Sparano Jr.
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