Chris Ballard explains why Colts had to have CJ Allen, AJ Haulcy

On Day 2 of the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts accomplished a big offseason goal by getting younger and faster on defense with the additions of CJ Allen and AJ Haulcy . So what led the Colts to drafting both of those players when on the clock? After Day 2, GM Chris Ballard weighed in and shared what stood out.

Why the Colts selected LB CJ Allen What Ballard had to say: "We've liked CJ through the whole process. He stands for all the right stuff. He's an athletic, fast MIKE.

He'll be a green dot guy for us from the get-go. I mean, he's a face of the program type of guy. He's a really special dude now.

loves to play, serious about football. It's evident when you watch Georgia tape. I mean, he shows up and look, I mean, Kirby (Smart) and Will (Muschamp) both, Muschamp, who's been a friend a long time, like they couldn't, they were affusive and what kind of player this kid is.