Will

Fries

He’ll miss at least the next four weeks, though after being carted off with the gruesome injury it’s likely that he’ll miss the rest of the season. Fries is in the final year of his rookie deal and will likely be a reclamation project on a one-year deal next year, whether for the Colts or somebody else.

Fries got twisted up in ugly fashion early in the third quarter. He had been off to a strong start this season, especially as a run-blocker. Undrafted rookie Dalton Tucker has entered the game in Fries’ absence. It’s a big downgrade.

Second-round DE Dayo Odeyingbo, fifth-round S Shawn Davis, seventh-round WR Mike Strachan and seventh-round OG Will Fries have also signed their rookie pacts. As is the case with all first-rounders, Paye’s deal includes a fifth-year team option for 2025. If exercised, fifth-year options are now fully guaranteed. Paye (6'4/272) is a former high school running back who was a member of Bruce Feldman’s “Freak-List.” Paye has a thick frame that channels tremendous power into his bull rush. Vicious hands and natural athleticism help him shoot gaps on run plays. He’s difficult to dislodge once his base is established and will chase down plays from behind. He put on a show at his pro day workout, running a 4.52 40-yard dash, posting a 35 ½” vertical, 33” arms and a Herculean 36 bench reps.

Fries, a 42-game starter, made appearances at right tackle, left tackle, and both guard spots in college. A run blocker that struggles with speed on the outside, Fries will likely move inside with the Colts.

Fries (6'6/313) was a mainstay on the offensive line for the Nittany Lions this season, appearing in all 12 games. Penn State will be experienced on offense next season, especially on the offensive line, as they look to once again challenge Ohio State for the top spot in the Big Ten East.