College football fans that got a chance to see the Texas Longhorns in action in 2023 understand just how dangerous Adonai Mitchell can be. The lanky wide receiver was part of a dynamic Steve Sarkisian offense that finished 9-1 last season.
There were plenty of talented receivers in the 2024 draft class and Mitchell had a high grade with many projecting the 6-2 receiver to be picked up in the first round. He eventually dropped into the second round with the Indianapolis Colts snagging him with the 52nd pick. Overall, 10 wide receivers were drafted ahead of the talented 21-year-old.
While some players would be ecstatic to achieve their lifelong dream, Mitchell is out to prove a point. The former longhorn chose the number 10 jersey because of the 10 receivers that were selected ahead of him. He previously wore the number 5 jersey in college. It was a clear message to the teams that passed on him.
I was just up late thinking about. I couldn’t get it off my mind. I was like…let me get 10,” said Mitchell while speaking to the press. “That’s all motivation.”
10 isn't just a jersey number for Adonai 😤
(via @colts) pic.twitter.com/RWpeyq2cwL
— NFL (@NFL) May 13, 2024
Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., LSU Malik Nabers and Washington’s Rome Odunze were projected to be the first three receivers off the board and were selected with the No. 4, No. 6 and No. 9 pick, respectively. Mitchell had to wait around and watch while Brian Thomas Jr., Xavier Worthy, Ricky Pearsall, Xavier Legette, Keon Coleman, Ladd McConkey, Ja’Lynn Polk were all picked ahead of him.
Mitchell insists he is not “bitter” but this could be the push he needs to excel with a talented Colts offense that provides him with a great spot to succeed.
