Projecting roles for Colts' 8 draft picks during 2026 season
What roles might each member of the Colts' 2026 NFL draft class fill as rookies?
We now know who makes up the Indianapolis Colts' 2026 NFL draft class, but where do each of these players fit on this year's roster? While a lot can change between now and Week 1, depending on how training camp unfolds, let's project what roles each of these eight rookies could fill. LB CJ Allen Allen should be a Day 1 starter for the Colts , specifically taking over the MIKE linebacker duties with Zaire Franklin now in Green Bay.
S AJ Haulcy Haulcy will have the opportunity to compete for the starting role next to Cam Bynum. His versatility makes him a good fit for Lou Anaurmo's disguise-heavy defense, and he brings impressive ball skills to the secondary as well. OL Jalen Farmer The Colts believe Farmer can play both guard and tackle positions.
At a minimum, he will provide depth at both positions, but he could also compete for playing time with either Matt Goncalves or Jalen Travis. During Chris Ballard's pre-draft press conference, he said, "We're going to bet on some development," referencing Goncalves and Travis, which may tell us that neither is a lock to be a starter. LB Bryce Boettcher Boettcher bolsters the depth and adds competition.
With Allen at the MIKE, he should compete for the WILL linebacker role with Akeem Davis-Gaither. DE George Gumbs Jr. Still relatively new to the position -- Gumbs' college career began as a wide receiver at Northern Illinois -- the Colts believe Gumbs has a solid foundation, but continued development is needed.