3 under-the-radar positions of need for Colts in 2026 NFL draft

We've spent our share of time diagnosing the major positional needs that the Indianapolis Colts have to address in the 2026 NFL draft. This includes the defensive front, linebacker, and safety positions. But what about some under-the-radar needs that should have GM Chris Ballard's attention?

There are a few of those as well. The challenge for Ballard, however, is that with a modest seven total picks, including only two in the top 100, he may not have the luxury of addressing some of these lesser needs. In what is likely a must-win season for Ballard, the Colts ' draft resources may be prioritized elsewhere.

That said, let's highlight some lesser talked about needs that could be addressed in the draft. Running back Adding to this position group in the draft to bolster the depth and competition behind Jonathan Taylor could be on Chris Ballard's radar, even if it's not an early-round selection. The only other players on the roster are DJ Giddens and Ulysses Bentley.

Last season, Bentley spent the year on the practice squad, while Giddens was often inactive, still needing to develop parts of his game, particularly in pass protection. Tight end An addition at tight end doesn't have to be made in the NFL draft, but doing so wouldn't be a bad idea either. That player could compete with Will Mallory -- who has struggled to earn playing time in his career -- for that final roster spot.