RSS Colts Team Notes

[Indianapolis Colts]

2026 Draft: Jake Golday Scouting Report

Measurables​

• 6‘4 Height
• 240 lb. Weight

Cincinnati LB Jake Golday (6-4, 237) signed w/Central Arkansas as a zero-star

2023 switch to LB from DL
Parents & bro played college
100+ tackles, 3.5 sacks in '25

Feldman’s Freak
4.24 shuttle, 10-ft 7 broad jump; recorded 22-mph; 365lb bench
9.4% missed tackle rate

… https://t.co/nmQjyl6lCt pic.twitter.com/ec0BbjNkMJ

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) December 22, 2025

2025 Stats​

• 70 Solo Tackles
• 31 Assist Tackles
• 9 Missed Tackles (8.2%)
• 43 Run Stops
• 26/36 Catches Allowed (72.2%)
• 227 Receiving Yards Allowed (8.7 per Catch)
• 121 Yards After Catch Allowed (4.7 per Catch)
• 2 TDs Allowed
• 0 INTs
• 3 Pass Break Ups
• 107.1 Passer Rating Allowed
• 76.7 Coverage Grade
• 18 Pressures (80 Pass Rush Snaps)
• 5 QB Hits
• 4 Sacks
• 1 Forced Fumble

Jake Golday continues to stand out in a really strong LB class. I think there are 3 future Pro Bowl LBs playing college football in Ohio right now.

He’s an elite athlete compared to most sub-LBs, but at 6’3”/240 you aren’t making any tradeoffs in run support. Plays blocks as… pic.twitter.com/109TUv4meX

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) October 7, 2025

Awards/Accolades​

• First Team All-Big 12
• Butkus Award Semi-Finalist

UC LB Jake Golday has had a bunch of "wow" reps through two weeks. Type of rangey, jumbo LB (6-4, 240) that everyone in the NFL is looking for. Trending towards a top-100 pick pic.twitter.com/UHhnyqNabG

— Mike Renner (@mikerenner_) September 7, 2025

Strengths​

• Bigger Linebacker but possesses excellent pursuit speed and explosiveness. Motor always runs hot and flies to the ball quickly. Was listed as # 48 on the Bruce Feldman Freaks List from the Athletic with reported 22.16 mph speed, 24 reps of 225 lbs. on the bench press, and a 4.24 second shuttle time that would have been the fastest in the 2025 Combine.
• Can lay the Hammer on his hits, powerful at contact. Reliable tackler with very rare misses and good technique to wrap up ball carriers.
• In Zone coverage he’s very reactive and strong acceleration to disrupt at catch point or stop underneath targets quickly.
• Fluid hips in man coverage, can get deep into his drops with a lot of speed and matches up well against tight ends.
• Sheds blockers well with his power profile and length. Tight ends blockers especially struggle to contain him, sheds them quickly.
• Versatile player, lined up as an Edge Rusher at Central Arkansas before shifting to hybrid role as offball LB, Nickel Corner, and Edge in Cincinnati’s defense.

Idk if there will be a stronger position group than LB in the 2026 draft. We haven't seen more than 3 LBs taken in the top-75 since 2022, but that's going to change with

Arvell Reese, OSU
CJ Allen, Georgia
Jake Golday, UC
Sonny Styles, OSU
Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

— Mike Renner (@mikerenner_) October 13, 2025

Weaknesses​

• Can drift in his zone too much in coverage.
• Can be faked out by QB’s eyes and pump fakes.
• Needs to learn to adjust to routes in coverage rather than just cover assigned zone.
• Needs to be a tick quicker in diagnosis, keeps his eyes in the backfield too long and can be caught on play action/misdirection on which hole to attack in the run game. Inexperience at Linebacker shows up in this regard.
• Biggest OL can give him problems in block shedding, needs to learn how to evade them or improve his lower leg strength for anchor against them.

Draft Projection​

Round 2 Grade​

Jake Golday is a fascinating ball of traits to work with. His athleticism is outstanding and his flashes of high level coverage play give hope that he can be a 3 down LB in the NFL. Blitz heavy Defensive Coordinators that are open to moving players around in their alignments will love Golday. The ability to have a player who can at any point be a devastating blitzer, a powerful block shedder in the the run game, or a Tight End eraser in coverage and can line up at a variety of spots is highly valuable. On my initial Big Board he was the 49th Ranked Prospect, and could be available for the Colts in the middle of Round 2.

Great clip from Jake Golday (#11) out of Cincy.

He comes firing off the edge and absolutely uproots the LT en route to a very solid pocket pressure. @GoldayJake pic.twitter.com/u5Ctq1IgfQ

— Newt Westen (@NFLDraft_Westen) December 23, 2025

Odds are that Golday can STILL grow into his frame more while maintaining his movement skills, making him even more devastating for blockers in the run game. But the biggest growth for Golday will need to be not physical but mental. He needs to sharpen his instincts with more play at offball Linebacker. But once the game slows down for him, he could be one of the better offball LBs in the NFL. Patience might be required, but until then he is still a highly versatile chess piece coordinators can use. Scouts will be watching him at the Shrine Bowl to see if he can diagnose quicker and see more reps of his man coverage skills, as he was primarily used in a zone heavy scheme at Cincinnati.

For the Colts who have Germaine Pratt as a Free Agent and Zaire Franklin as a possible trade/cut candidate for cap savings, Golday would make a lot of sense. Could lineup as a MIKE or as a WILL Linebacker, as he has started at both in Cincinnati. Most likely if the Colts keep either Pratt or Zaire, Golday would slide in at WILL with his better coverage skills and lack of experience being the green dot Linebacker calling things for the Defense. Still he is a high effort player on the field, and if he attacks the film room with similar intensity it could bode very well for his NFL future at either spot.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...120105/2026-draft-jake-golday-scouting-report

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Report: Giants request to interview Colts DC Lou Anarumo for head coach vacancy

According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the New York Giants have requested to interview Indianapolis Colts veteran defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo for their open head coaching job:

The #Giants have requested permission to interview #Colts DC Lou Anarumo for their head-coaching job, source says. The Staten Island native and former NYG assistant will interview with the team in the near future.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 6, 2026

The 59-year-old defensive coordinator just completed his debut season for Indianapolis, but has also been requested to interview for the Tennessee Titans open head coaching vacancy this cycle.

Anarumo was reportedly connected to the Giants opening entering this past weekend.

The Colts defense finished allowing the NFL 21st most points (24.2 avg. ppg), but finished around 14th overall in defensive DVOA. Under Anarumo, it was once a Top 10 defensive unit before injuries to its three best players: DeForest Buckner, Sauce Gardner, and Charvarius Ward clearly decimated the unit’s success down the stretch.

To me, it was more of an injury and personnel issue than coaching, as Anarumo wasn’t able to get any sort of consistent outside pass rush and had linebackers that couldn’t consistently cover the opposition. Without his starting outside cornerbacks and his best defensive lineman as well, things snowballed quickly in Indianapolis.

Nicknamed the ‘Mad Scientist,’ Anarumo has been lauded for his ability to tailor his defensive gameplans to his opponents on a weekly basis. However, like most defensive coordinators and defensive minded head coaches, as play callers, his units have slipped when they don’t have the horses or talent to match up and make plays.

In my opinion, Anarumo remains one of the better defensive coordinators in the league, and it’s a shame that we never really got to see him coach the Colts defense at full strength following the much anticipated trade deadline acquisition of former 2x NFL All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. Maybe that will change in 2026, but we’ll see!

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...w-colts-dc-lou-anarumo-for-head-coach-vacancy

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

While Irsay-Gordon’s letter is appreciated, fans have heard it before from the Colts

Carlie Irsay-Gordon and her sisters just concluded their first year as owners of the Indianapolis Colts. Overall, they did a good job. Seeing their involvement with the team bodes well for the future. Witnessing Irsay-Gordon swing for the fences by acquiring Sauce Gardner was a welcomed sight because watching an aggressive move not fully come to fruition is much better than always sitting on the sidelines and accepting mediocrity. As the season came to an end, a letter was written expressing disappointment and acknowledging that the franchise’s standard was not met. While appreciated, it is giving a sense of Deja vu.

Let’s get something straight before proceeding. Fans should accept her letter, the accountability, and the reasoning and decision she made to retain Chris Ballard and Shane Steichen. We don’t have to like it, but we can accept it. The problem is that Colts fans have heard it before; like, super recently before. Irsay-Gordon touches on it in her own letter, but Jim Irsay made similar statements and commitments just last offseason. He spoke of disappointment, a standard, and getting back to how it used to be. He acknowledged the frustration of not reaching the playoffs and retaining the same staff. He professed his belief in Ballard and being on the right track, yet here we are.

That wasn’t the first time either. Go back to one of the more dispiriting losses in franchise history when Carson Wentz and the Colts couldn’t beat the lowly Jaguars to make the playoffs. Irsay spoke of “all chips in”. That sounds like a championship move right there. Three years have passed since then with no playoffs or division titles. The Colts must have not had many chips to play with…

At some point, the talk needs to be backed up by results. The aggression this season was huge, both before and during the season. Carlie Irsay-Gordon green lighting the trade was something fans of Indiana sports have begged for in years past. This is not a knock on the letter or her approach. I have plenty of patience left for ownership. When is change justified though? When do the standards need to be reset with a fresh face? Irsay-Gordon is carving her own path which is currently leading her down the road of consistency. Expect consistency from this new ownership, but without results, don’t expect they will continue down the same path forever.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ated-fans-have-heard-it-before-from-the-colts

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey: End of Season Blues

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Colts fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-reacts-survey-postseason-end-of-season-blues

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts GM Chris Ballard aims to inject youth and speed into defense

Indianapolis, IN — Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard concluded with his most recent end-of-season press conference around lunchtime, fitting for someone who says they’re hungry to right the ship but whose results suggest otherwise.

Making it a decade’s worth of data points as we enter year ten of the Chris Ballard era, there’s little to no faith and/or optimism remaining with this regime. However, Ballard is heading into the final year of his contract without an extension looming for the first time.

Will he grow reckless with his decision-making and, in turn, set the franchise back on his way out?

He suggested and even nearly promised at times that he’d do right by the Irsay sisters and this organization, treating this upcoming year with the same sense of urgency that he always has, though he explicitly laid out this offseason’s blueprint, one that included a heavy emphasis on defense:

“I think our defensive front, we’ve gotta add some fuel, and we’ve gotta get younger. We’ve gotta get faster, unequivocally on defense.”

Ballard would continue mentioning the goal to get faster and younger on defense throughout the remainder of the presser. Although both would inevitably overlap, he specified that youth will be prioritized on the defensive line, whereas added speed was more generally mentioned and is to be injected throughout the entire defense.

Here’s how the Colts’ defensive line fared in 2025-26, according to Next Gen Stats:

39 sacks (T-15th)

34.3% pressure rate (16th)

2.76 sec avg time to pressure (24th)

0.88 sec avg get-off (T-23rd)

2.91 sec avg time to throw (28th)

18.3% run stuff rate (7th)

Chris Ballard did somewhat acknowledge that most of the draft capital he has used on edge rushers over the years has resulted in little to nothing. He’d go on to say, “We’ve gotta address the front and make sure we have enough,” after spending most of his response propping up 2024 first-round pick DE Laiatu Latu, who is fresh off a sophomore campaign that totaled a team-high 8.5 sacks to pair with 3 interceptions.

The youngest avenue possible is by way of the NFL Draft, but since time is running out, look for Ballard and Co. to hit the open market for an ascending player with plenty of tread left on his tires. This could very well serve as an obvious smokescreen to then pair star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson with Laiatu Latu, reuniting him with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, but at least there are a handful of options set to become free agents.

Star defenders DT DeForest Buckner (neck surgery) and CB Charvarius Ward (concussions) are in a bit of limbo as far as their futures go. Buckner has indicated that he plans to return for the 2026-27 season, whereas Ward has recently admitted that retirement is being contemplated after suffering three concussions this past season.

Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is set to return to the fold as of now, though head coach interviews with the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants are set. Chris Ballard and Co. did attempt to give Anarumo his best defensive roster in years with big-time acquisitions across the defensive backfield, but the cookie didn’t crumble in their favor. Lacking in the personnel department is ultimately what led to Anarumo being let go from Cincinnati, but if the stars can finally align for the Colts under Chris Ballard, an adequate stable of horses can help aid Anarumo and Co. to a deep run in the playoffs.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...d-aims-to-inject-youth-and-speed-into-defense

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Once competing to start, Colts have two QBs with contrasting team futures in Indianapolis

Indianapolis Colts embattled longtime general manager Chris Ballard appears as though he already knows his starting quarterback for the 2026 regular season—even if he’s not currently under contract with his club.

Further, that quarterback may not even be ready for next year’s opener, although time will tell.

Of course, that quarterback referenced by Ballard is a familiar face: Daniel Jones, who is currently recovering from a season-ending torn Achilles suffered in Week 14, and is expected to be one of the Colts’ top priorities for retaining this offseason—along with breakout starting wideout Alec Pierce.

Ballard didn’t shy away when reiterating his franchise’s commitment regarding hopefully continuing with Jones:

"I think Daniel Jones has got a really bring future here."#Colts general manager on the free agent quarterback: pic.twitter.com/DS9ccjx4ZP

— WISH-TV News (@WISHNews8) January 8, 2026

When fully healthy, Jones was on pace to be a legitimate Pro Bowler—and was still named a Pro Bowl alternate, despite being hurt late in the season and missing the Colts’ last 4 starts.

Leading the league’s most prolific offense (and a historically elite one at that) before his injuries, Jones completed 261 of 384 pass attempts (68%) for 3,101 total passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns, and 8 interceptions during 13 starts in his debut campaign in Indianapolis.

The pairing of him and head coach Shane Steichen was highly productive, and with the latter announced as returning by team owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon, it only makes sense that Jones does too for 2026.

Especially, when considering the Colts lack of clear upgrades as readily available options. The 2026 free agent quarterback market either has well past their prime veterans or inferior replacements to Jones. Regarding the draft, the Colts are without their 2026 first round pick as a result of the trade deadline Sauce Gardner deal.

Bringing back Jones on a short-term deal, even recovering from the Achilles tear, makes a lot of sense.

On the other hand, the young quarterback who lost last year’s offseason quarterback competition with Jones, soon-to-be 4th-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, was lauded by general manager Chris Ballard for being a great teammate this past year and making strides, but having had a myriad of injuries (the latest being sheer terrible luck) and speculated earlier maturity issues, could be on his way out of Indianapolis this offseason:

Chris Ballard on the future of Anthony Richardson:

“I was really happy with Anthony even after we named Daniel the starter. Unfortunately for Anthony he’s had some really bad luck… He’s made some really good strides. He’s a great teammate” pic.twitter.com/RHUfQs6HCQ

— SleeperColts (@SleeperColts) January 8, 2026

Ballard added that Richardson still has to work through his vision limitations, following the fracturing of his orbital bone, and that, “We’ll see what the future holds for him when asked about his role with the franchise in Indianapolis or elsewhere.”

When rookie quarterback Riley Leonard was brought up, who played well in the regular season finale and started in relief of Jones, Ballard commented, “If Anthony doesn’t get to where we think he can be, can Riley be the [QB]2? Every year, I think it’s a position that we have to address in some way, fashion, or form.”

Right now, one quarterback appears to be well on his way to returning as the starter, while the other’s future is murky at best in Indianapolis.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...with-contrasting-team-futures-in-indianapolis

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indiana football shows the Colts might not be as far away as you think

The 2025 season for the Indianapolis Colts ended in disappointing fashion. Let me rephrase that. The 2025 season for the Indianapolis Colts ended disastrously as it was engulfed in flames and left everyone with a sick taste in their mouth. Not only did they make unfortunate history as the last team in thirty years to start 8-2 and miss the playoffs, but they appear to be heading towards next year with no real direction. Here’s the potential silver lining though. If you have watched a second of Indiana University football the last two years, you know the improbable and the hopeless can change in an instant.

I am no college football expert and fully understand the games are very different. NIL and the transfer portal dominate the game now with more than a few saying it is ruining the sport. That may be so, but it is how the “game” is played. No one has played it better than Curt Cignetti who has taken the doormat of the FBS and turned it into a powerhouse. IU football was an afterthought. Sorry, that is unfair to afterthoughts. IU football bordered on joke territory.

Two years later, IU is playing Oregon with a chance of going to the National Championship game to take on Miami. I’ll let you read that sentence as many times as you need because it is truly unbelievable; maybe one of the most unbelievable things in sports. One of the few things that gets remotely close is Tyrese Haliburton’s run though last year’s playoffs. Both were absurd, but IU’s history of losing is so long that what we are witnessing defies logic.

All of that is to say, if IU can turn things around in two short years, why can’t the Colts? Cignetti adapted to a changing landscape. The Colts could too. Instead of playing old school football, they could modernize. Instead of being sucked into a player’s RAS, they could focus on production. Instead of running back the same staff, they could look to Indiana who brought in a winner and changed the landscape of IU football, potentially forever. Is there unlimited money to spend as long as Mark Cuban writes a check? Is there a portal that all NFL players can enter if they want to each year? Of course not. The games are different, but the tenants remain the same.

Curt Cignetti has removed excuses from every other college team. Excuses should be ripped from most NFL teams as well. The Colts appear to be wandering no man’s land. That doesn’t mean they couldn’t turn it around quickly. In a parity league, last place teams can win the division the following year. Cignetti showed that if he can bring Indiana University football onto the grandest of stages, anything, anywhere can be accomplished.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...e-colts-might-not-be-as-far-away-as-you-think

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Reacts Survey Results: End of Season Blues

Because of critical injuries down the season’s stretch run, the Indianapolis Colts, once sitting at 8-2 atop the AFC, ended up losing 7 straight games—sliding out of the playoffs for the fifth straight season.

In some regards, the franchise’s latest collapse was shocking.

However, when you consider that the team lost its starting quarterback, its primary backup quarterback, it’s former Pro Bowl veteran defensive tackle, and two former All-Pros at outside cornerback, as well as their starting right tackle and even left tackle for a time, and it may not be at all.

As far as Colts fans confidence that the franchise is headed in the right direction, it’s been a roller coaster ride of a season. In Week 1, that number was a mere 42%, but as the Colts became one of the hottest teams in football—particularly on offense, that number ballooned all the way up to 95% by Week 12.

However, after the Colts season snowballed, that number now sits at a lowly 18% fan confidence percentage.

However, it may not be that the Colts simply had another lost season.

Rather, it may also be that team ownership announced earlier this week that embattled longtime general manager Chris Ballard would be returning for at least the 2026 campaign.

Under Ballard’s prior 9 years, the Colts have one playoff win and 0 division titles—the latter is pretty surprising, given that every other member of the AFC South has won it at least twice during that same drought.

From that sense, 60% of Colts indicated that they are “disappointed” that the team is deciding to run it back—which isn’t just with Ballard, but also with soon-to-be 4th-year head coach Shane Steichen also returning as well:

For what it’s worth, Steichen’s seat doesn’t appear to be quite as hot as Ballard, and despite the disappointing ending, he did himself a lot of favors this season, having exceptional success with new starting quarterback Daniel Jones during his debut campaign, before he was limited and eventually lost for the season with injuries.

He also had pretty good, yet surprising success with 44-year-old unretired quarterback Philip Rivers (who hadn’t played professional football in five years) and rookie quarterback Riley Leonard in the regular season finale—given the unique circumstances surrounding each replacement starting quarterback.

Speaking of Jones, the veteran quarterback is a pending free agent and is in the midst of recovering from a season-ending Achilles injury, but is hopeful to be ready by this summer’s training camp. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Colts starting quarterback this past year, 44% of Colts fans believe he’s the 2026 Week 1 starter:

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...lts-reacts-survey-results-end-of-season-blues

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

2026 Draft: Jacob Rodriguez Scouting Report

Measurables​

• 6‘1 Height
• 235 lb. Weight

"I was lucky my brother went to school there. So I slept on the ground next to his bed for a semester and then earned that scholarship spot later on." @TexasTechFB LB Jacob Rodriguez shares his journey to join the Red Raiders pic.twitter.com/zJcooaaSLL

— Big Noon Kickoff (@BNKonFOX) November 22, 2025

2025 Stats​

• 94 Solo Tackles
• 30 Assist Tackles
• 20 Missed Tackles (13.9%)
• 70 Run Stops
• 7 Forced Fumbles
• 54 Receptions Allowed / 66 Targets = 81.8%
• 523 Yards Allowed (7.9 YPA)
• 343 Yards After Contact Allowed (6.4 Per Catch)
• 2 TDs Allowed
• 4 INTs
• 3 Pass Break Ups
• 84.5 Passer Rating Allowed
• 6 Pressures (15% Pressure Rate)
• 2 QB Hits
• 1 Sack

Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez this season:

• 95.4 PFF Run Def. Grade (1st in LBs)
• 92.9 PFF Coverage Grade (1st in LBs)
• 7(!) Forced Fumbles (1st)
• 3 INTs (2rd in LBs)
• 3 PDs (7th in LBs)
• 2 TDs (16th in LBs)
• 88 Tackles (16th)

GENERATIONAL.

Needs Heisman Votes. pic.twitter.com/4gJfgh5lfS

— College Football Report (@CFBReport) November 13, 2025

Awards/Accolades​

• Chuck Bednarik Award Winner (2025, Top Defensive Player)
• Bronco Nagurski Award Winner (2025, Best Defensive Player)
• Dick Butkus Award Winner (2025, Best Linebacker)
• Lombardi Award Winner (2025, Best Collegiate Player)
• Top Defensive Player Heisman Votes Received (2025)

In the world of snubs, Jacob Rodriguez not being a Heisman Finalist is a pretty darn egregious one.

Rodriguez just had one of the best linebacker seasons we will ever see https://t.co/7QOkxMx2VG pic.twitter.com/YMuBkEIEgw

— Nash (@NashTalksTexas) December 10, 2025

Strengths​

• Rangy Linebacker with sideline to sideline ability.
• Maniacal in his punchouts, always looking to dislodge the football with fast strikes.
• Instinctive in Zone Coverage, Eyes are on the QB like a Hawk. Can bait QBs into errant passes. Has a WR background and his hands show it.
• Flies to the ball for short gains. It’s a combination of strong speed, quick diagnosing, and acceleration.
• Slippery against blockers, knows how to get around them in the run and pass.
• Good Tackling technique.
• Relentless motor, always running full speed in pursuit and in coverage.

Texas Tech fans have been campaigning for linebacker Jacob Rodriguez for Heisman.

Head coach Joey McGuire lined him up at quarterback so he could score a touchdown:

“Everybody is talking about QBs for Heisman, so we put him in at QB.”

pic.twitter.com/vlKwJHCESy

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) November 16, 2025

Weaknesses​

• Undersized and short arms causes most of his on tape problems:
  • Even with Good Tackling Technique his ability to wrap up ball carriers is inconsistent.
  • Lacks power in his hits, which is an issue against bigger backs and ball carriers which creates extra Yards After Contact opportunities.
  • Can Struggle to get free of blockers once they get their mitts on him. Not enough anchor to hold up against them and will get pushed back.
  • Can be thrown over the top of in contested catch situations against bigger TEs or slot WRs.

Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez is in the running for “Every fan base wants this guy” on here for the 2026 Draft class.

Past winners:
2025 CJ West
2024 Javon Baker
2023 John Michael Schmitz

@Linebackers_U https://t.co/243qxICQtO pic.twitter.com/HIWH4nHWg8

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) November 20, 2025

Draft Projection​

Round 3-4 Grade​

In my initial Big Board Top 100, Rodriguez ranked 93rd with a Round 3-4 Grade. Coverage Linebackers are becoming more and more scarce in the NFL, making his skillset all the more coveted.

Jacob Rodriguez is the most decorated defender in the 2026 Draft class with his dominant season this past year at Texas Tech. His signature playmaking abilities on defense aren’t going away, as he can make splash plays with his Peanut punch, his coverage instincts, and ball skills. Colts fans will be reminded of Darius Shaquille Leonard with the way Rodriguez attacks the ball, which has led to many iconic moments in both players careers.

Jacob Rodriguez appreciation post. He did this exact same thing at Arizona to force a fumble and help secure the win. pic.twitter.com/UUprtlLaTA

— Dustin (@Dustin3095) November 3, 2024

Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez is a ball magnet. One of the most impactful players in the country and a massive NFL draft riser.

And of course, David Bailey helped force this bad throw pic.twitter.com/54FhQYdsgh

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) November 8, 2025

But unlike Leonard, Rodriguez lacks the length that Chris Ballard has coveted in his linebackers in drafts’ past. While both playmaking LBs had their issues in block shedding due to being undersized, Rodriguez’s lack of length further exacerbates the issue and causes more problems in tackling and pass contesting. He will need a strong combine performance in both speed and explosiveness testing to help lessen some of these concerns, but there might be clear limits to what he can do in his pro career based on his measurables.

Some schemes will value him a lot more, and the Colts seemingly have adjusted their Linebacker specifications as of late with Lou Anarumo at Defensive Coordinator to not value length as much in his first year. The fit with the Colts is interesting, as his range, coverage ability, and playmaking are sorely needed at WILL Linebacker. But if he doesn’t have adequate Defensive Tackles in front of him to free him up from blockers, there can be some issues against the run.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...draft-jacob-rodriguez-scouting-report-outline

 

[Zedster]

Interesting roundup of Colts news here. The situation in Indy feels like it's at a real crossroads.

The defensive stats tell the story - that 2.91 second average time to throw ranking 28th is brutal. You can have decent sack numbers but if you're not getting consistent pressure, quarterbacks are going to pick you apart. Ballard's acknowledgment that his edge rusher draft picks haven't panned out is pretty candid for him. Latu looks like the real deal though - 8.5 sacks and 3 picks is a nice sophomore jump.

The QB situation is what fascinates me most. Daniel Jones having a potential Pro Bowl caliber season before the Achilles tear is one of those "what could have been" storylines. The numbers were genuinely impressive - 68% completion, leading the league's top offense. But banking on an Achilles recovery for a guy whose career has been defined by injury concerns is a gamble.

And Anthony Richardson... man. The talent was always evident but between the injuries and the "vision limitations" from the orbital fracture, it sounds like Ballard is preparing everyone for a departure. That 2023 draft pick might just not work out, and sometimes that's how it goes.

The Indiana football comparison is a stretch but I get the sentiment. Cignetti's turnaround is genuinely historic. The difference is the NFL doesn't have a transfer portal letting you completely remake a roster in one offseason. Still, the point about removing excuses has some merit.

That 18% fan confidence number is rough but probably deserved after going 0-7 to close the season. Brutal way to end it.

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Riley Leonard proves he belongs in the Colts’ long-term plans

Riley Leonard’s performance against the Texans wasn’t just productive — it was revealing. Against one of the best defenses in football, he showed a blend of traits that translate at the NFL level: arm strength to attack tight windows and stretch defenses, confidence to let it rip without hesitation, poise, and the athleticism to extend plays when they broke down. This wasn’t a quarterback surviving on scheme or easy throws; it was a quarterback actively solving problems in real time. As the clips break down, what stands out isn’t any single throw or run, but how comfortably Leonard operated against speed, pressure, and complexity — the kind of environment that separates backups from legitimate starters.

Riley Leonard with his first pass in his first career start. TOUCHDOWN ALEC PIERCE!#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/YYnQ9dKVsm

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

This is a heck of a way to start your first NFL start! The breakdown in coverage made things easy for him, but he showed off his arm and didn’t hesitate for a second making the throw.

First down Riley Leonard with those wheels.#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/ZxXatqaLWA

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

Leonard is a legitimately fast player who can do a lot of damage with his feet. He can run away from linebackers. This clip showed that he can be used on designed quarterback runs and is a threat through the air and on the ground.

Can't have this from a guy scheduled to count $29 million against the cap next season.#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/4SnAmniYtj

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

Despite the ugly drop, Leonard shows great timing and accuracy on the throw. The timing of the throw is perfect as it finds Pittman right in the middle of a nice big gap and it’s thrown without leading him as leading him could’ve led him too far into the safety, which could’ve gotten him killed.

Big completion to Josh Downs!#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/nb09N2SKyg

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

I love this throw! Leonard does a great job of flipping his hips and setting his feet quickly before ripping a throw 40+ yards down the field without missing a beat. The efficiency of the hip flipping into his feet setting was high level and shows his mechanics are solid.

This would have been a great catch but your QB3 throws a dot to your $29 million man, this has to be six. #Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/YiheqSwm86

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

With the pocket collapsing, Leonard wisely steps up to buy some space and times the throw with his hitch. Oftentimes, throwing while hitching forward leads to an overthrown, but Leonard does a perfect job throwing a great touch throw to a horizontally moving receiver. Pittman needs to make this catch.

Great pass to Alec Pierce for another AP TD.

Riley Leonard looks like a guy…#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/VdOBQTyoUd

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

Leonard looks off and then comes back to Pierce to his right and throws a perfect ball that only Pierce could’ve caught.

Amazing quarterbacking from Riley Leonard!#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/L7OLmC8mSZ

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

The ball is slightly underthrown, but Leonard does a great job again of stepping up in the pocket, which was collapsing from the outside and hits Pierce who is wide open. A ball thrown 2-4 yards further gets Pierce in stride instead of him throwing down, but he was open enough he didn’t need to be perfect.

Big gain to Josh Downs!#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/tbn81rDgzf

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

I love Leonard going through his full drop with a hitch and hitting Downs perfectly on time. It shows the scheme works well as the timing between the quarterback’s footwork and the receiver’s route is in sync. I love the decision and throw from Leonard, who finds the Colts’ best receiver on 3rd downs.

RILEY LEONARD IS QB1#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/zDb8Owenh2

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

It doesn’t look like anything on paper, but this is a heck of a run to take it outside and then make a defender flat out miss. He’s nimble and shifty enough to make defenders miss in space.

Leonard making good decisions, checking it down and moving the chains. #Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/Q8lo8dHX0c

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

Leonard has time in the pocket here which makes reading a million times easier, but I love him scanning and then hitting his checkdown. This is especially important on 2nd down to get some yards and make 3rd down easier or in this case, get the first down.

Nice gain to Mo to set up 3rd and manageable. #Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/PpAMHZT1uf

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

This isn’t an easy throw with a defender in your face, but he performs an off platform throw and makes the right read to Mo Alie-Cox to make 3rd down a lot easier.

Nice scramble for the first for 15#Colts#ForTheShoe#Texans#INDvsHOU pic.twitter.com/xW0UwnZAr6

— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) January 4, 2026

This last run was like his 1st and 2nd run mixed into one. He showed good niftiness and nimbleness to make the first defender miss and then shows great acceleration and speed to make another one miss and get the first down.

When you step back from the individual throws and runs, what makes Leonard’s performance against Houston matter is how complete it felt. He wasn’t just hitting open receivers or escaping pressure — he was operating the offense with confidence, rhythm, and purpose against a defense built to take that away. That’s the baseline for playing quarterback in the NFL, and Leonard met it. With Daniel Jones coming off a torn Achilles and no guarantee he’ll be himself right away, Leonard has now put real evidence on film that he can at least be part of the starting conversation next season. That doesn’t mean the job should be handed to him, but it does mean he’s earned the right to compete for it. If this game was any indication, Leonard isn’t just a fill-in or a developmental body — he’s a quarterback who can push the room, raise the floor, and make decisions harder for the Colts in the best possible way.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...roves-he-belongs-in-the-colts-long-term-plans

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ DeForest Buckner initially appears poised to return for 2026 season

Indianapolis Colts former Pro Bowl veteran defensive tackle, DeForest Buckner, who recently had neck surgery, looks like he’s eyeing a return for the 2026 regular season (via his personal Instagram account):

#Colts DT DeForest Buckner, who recently had neck surgery, shared a Bible passage and message via IG:

“Next season I will be complete ” pic.twitter.com/QE39vbKDYq

— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) January 7, 2026

On Thursday, Colts embattled longtime general manager Chris Ballard also indicated in his end-of-season press conference that, “Buck had surgery it was successful. His mindset is that he’s going to play again.”

The 31-year-old veteran defensive tackle was limited to 10 starts this past season because of a lingering neck injury. After Week 9 at the Pittsburgh Steelers, Buckner was placed on injured reserve with a neck injury. However, after being activated off injured reserve in Week 16, he re-aggravated the injury against the San Francisco 49ers at home and was shut down for the season, being placed on injured reserve again.

This time, for good in 2025.

He finished his 10th season prematurely with 47 tackles (30 solo) and 4.0 sacks during those 10 starts. Per PFF, he was graded as their 16th best interior defender this past regular season with a +74.0 overall grade.

Buckner has one year left on his current Colts contract for 2026 with a cap hit of $20.8M.

In recent seasons, Buckner been arguably the Colts most valuable player collectively and unquestionably their best defensive player consistently since retired All-Pro linebacker Darius Leonard suffered a career-altering back injury. It’ll be interesting to see whether this neck injury limits Buckner or if he can make a full recovery himself.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ally-appears-poised-to-return-for-2026-season

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts LG Quenton Nelson named 2025 NFL 2nd-Team All-Pro

This past Saturday, the AP announced that Indianapolis Colts stalwart left guard Quenton Nelson was named an NFL 2nd-Team All-Pro—who was the Horseshoe’s lone All-Pro representative this year.

It’s the sixth time that Nelson has been named an NFL All-Pro in his future Hall of Fame career—having been named an NFL First-Team All-Pro during 2018-20 and an NFL 2nd-Team All-Pro in 2021, 2024, and 2025 respectively. He’s also been an NFL Pro Bowler in each of his first eight seasons.

Given injuries to their other stars, the only other Colts player who should’ve been realistically been under consideration this past year was star workhorse Jonathan Taylor, but after he saw his production decline down the season’s final stretch, he was beat out by both the Atlanta Falcons Bijan Robinson (1st-Team) and the Buffalo Bills James Cook (2nd-Team) at his position respectively.

It’s worth noting that the group of Taylor, rookie tight end Tyler Warren, safety Cam Bynum, punter Rigoberto Sanchez, long-snapper Luke Rhodes, and special teamer (wideout) Ashton Dulin all received votes though.

Regarding Nelson though, he made all 17 starts for Indianapolis again this season—which he’s done four seasons in a row becoming a modern day ironman out there. Per PFF, Nelson earned a +84.5 overall grade this past year, which was the 4th highest among all players at offensive guard.

Consistently the catalyst along the Colts offensive line yet again, the 29-year-old offensive guard was instrumental in paving the way for Taylor to rush for 1,585 total rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns on 323 total carries. In pass protection, Nelson was equally exceptional—allowing just a single sack, 2 QB hits, and 15 total pressures during 637 total pass blocking snaps this past year.

Obviously, it’s another tip of the cap to Nelson who no doubt appears to be Canton-bound when it’s all said and done. Hopefully, the Colts can finally get him back to the playoffs again because he’s only played in 3 career postseason games, which simply hasn’t been good enough as of late collectively.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...uenton-nelson-named-2025-nfl-2nd-team-all-pro

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

2026 Draft: R Mason Thomas Scouting Report

Measurables​

• 6‘2 Height
• 249 lb. Weight

R Mason Thomas speed-to-power pic.twitter.com/PQVbfmu549

— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) September 20, 2025

2025 Stats​

• 28 Pressures (14.6% Pressure Rate)
• 20.2% Pass Rush Win Rate
• 3 QB Hits
• 6.5 Sacks
• 90.3 Pass Rush Grade
• 14 Solo Tackles
• 5 Assist Tackles
• 4 Missed Tackles (17. 4%)
• 19 Run Stops
• 1 Forced Fumble
• 1 Fumble Recovery
• 1 Touchdown
• 5 Penalties

Marshawn Lynch & Greg Jennings would be proud of this R Mason Thomas touchdownpic.twitter.com/Rzp8BS8I5w

— PFF College (@PFF_College) November 2, 2025

Awards/Accolades​

• First Team All SEC (2025)
• All American Second Team (2025)
• Bednarik Award Semi-Finalist (2025)
• Second Team All SEC (2024)

Strengths​

• High Level Athlete. Has impressive speed, agility, bend, and burst combined with surprising upper body strength. Enables the finesse in his game to shine and the power in his game to take tackles off guard for a smaller Edge Rusher.
• Pass Rush Variety. Thomas displays a variety of moves and paths to the QB on tape. His Speed to Power stands out first with a bull rush, followed by the Duck-Under (Ghost technique) counter if that doesn’t work initially. His spin move inside and outside is nice as well. He is able to use chops and rips well to gain separation from blockers, with some occasional swim moves as well.
• Motor stands out, constantly driving his legs in bull rushes, playing with physicality in the run, and hustling in pursuit.

R Mason Thomas can RUN run. pic.twitter.com/OmUoa2xPWz

— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) January 2, 2026

• Plays with a natural low pad level and uses it to his advantage in pass and run plays, able to get under and around blockers.

R Mason Thomas | EDGE | OU

Explosive rush specialist w/ great 1st step & great high side track. + Ankle flexibility to tilt around the corner & hip bend to change levels. Great at turning speed into power; generates pop at impact.

Fights at PoA & solid backside pursuit vs run pic.twitter.com/JlgSd6ISv1

— Matt Lane (@Matty_KCSN) December 23, 2025

Weaknesses​

• Lower body anchor is below average, limiting his impact on run downs with edge setting against down blockers
• Lacks length, will consistently not be first to engage against blockers if his hands aren’t quick. Hurts his ability to block shed against the run especially.
• Injury History, 2 High Ankle Sprains in 2020 (got surgery in 2021) and 2023, affecting both ankles. Torn deltoid in 2020 (got surgery in 2021). Quad and hamstring injury in 2025 during 70+ yard fumble recovery TD (seen earlier), missing several games. Was able to return from injury for last game vs Alabama, getting 3 Pressures on 23 Pass Rush Snaps (13%).

Loved R Mason Thomas during Summer Scouting and still proving me right
-plays contain well when needed to (Chambliss)
-Strength & Explosion is dynamite
-Swipe, Speed to Power, Bull Rush, and Bend is all he needs
-6’1 249 sub 32” arm sub 9” hands is concerning though#Sooners pic.twitter.com/dy6Pghj1m7

— Randall Slifer (@RandallSlifer) November 7, 2025

Draft Projection​

Round 1-2 Grade​

Do you like undersized speed rushers with elite athleticism, bend, and a strong array of pass rush moves and counters? Many modern names come to mind with this archetype of pass rusher: Micah Parsons, Nik Bonitto, Haason Reddick, Will McDonald IV, Nolan Smith, Josh Uche; many of which I had very highly on my predraft boards (ask my college roommates how upset I was that Reddick went just 2 picks before the Colts in 2017, there is video evidence that haunts our group chat even now). Because for Colts fans this archetype brings one name to mind:

The explosiveness off the snap from R Mason Thomas (#32) is pretty special. It's not Micah Parson's level, but it's up there. pic.twitter.com/TPkSovN3It

— Brian Maafi (@BmaafiNFL) November 8, 2025

Former Alabama A&M Defensive End Robert Mathis, the Colts all time sack leader.

Call me sentimental, but I miss having an edge rusher who jumps off the line at the snap like he’s got a rocket in his posterior, gets low on the outside shoulder, spins around, and has a bull rush that surprises linemen. Yearning for yesteryear aside, the Colts also still need this archetype on their current team.

With just Laiatu Latu (technician who is in between finesse and power builds and tries to win every way) and JT Tuimoloau (power rusher who struggled to earn snaps as a rookie) under contract in 2026, the Colts need some extra juice on the edge. While the position likely will be addressed in Free Agency as well, the need for a young pass rusher who can get to the QB constantly and quickly remains paramount. As far as his weaknesses on the field go, there is a relatively easy way to address it: don’t play him on run downs. Let him be situational, use and edge rusher rotation and let him play the snaps that put him in the best position to succeed. This has the added benefit of keeping both him and the linemen he is rotating with fresh and maintain their stamina throughout a game and a season.

A really poignant answer here from R Mason Thomas, prompted by a question from @johnehoover, as he reflects on his career with the #Sooners.

"How [the coaches have] developed me to get where I am today… is crazy." pic.twitter.com/9c5xpHySjl

— Parker Thune (@ParkerThune) December 20, 2025

R Mason Thomas was ranked 29th on my initial Big Board Top 100 Rankings, with a Round 1-2 Grade. The odds he makes it to the Colts aren’t great, but they aren’t 0 as draft falls can happen. Despite his upside as a pass rusher, the red flags in the run game and his injury history are real enough to give some teams pause. He most likely goes off the board late Round 1 or early Round 2, but if teams are scared off there is a chance he could fall to the 40s. Should the Colts either get extremely lucky or add extra draft capital to trade up with, Thomas is on the short list of players they could look to get aggressive to acquire.

He did accept a Senior Bowl invite and can boost or hurt his stock with his practice performances. In Mobile he needs to prove he is healthy and ready for the pre-draft process to be able to fully show off his explosiveness. If he does so, he can secure his first round status. If he doesn’t, then the questions mount.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...457/2026-draft-r-mason-thomas-scouting-report

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

The NFL playoffs kicked off leaving Colts fans to wonder what could have been

Wild Card Weekend kicked off in the NFL. As always, there was plenty of drama and intrigue. From the storylines, to the Bears’ dramatic come from behind win, to all of the road teams that found success, the first weekend of the playoffs didn’t disappoint. It was a stress free weekend for someone with a team on the outside looking in though. Outside of rooting against a particular team, there was nothing to cheer for or worry about with the Indianapolis Colts failing to make the playoffs for the fifth straight year.

It didn’t have to be that way. It certainly didn’t look or feel it would be that way through the first ten games of the season. Yes, there was some uneasiness because of who the Colts played over their first ten, but they were blowing teams out and had built a bit of a cushion. After the bye week, things weren’t the same as the Colts never won again. It was quite the fall from grace.

Many fans dreamed about the playoffs and even a division title. Dare I say, more than a few whispered the “S.B.” word when they traded for Sauce Gardner. It was premature, but why not dream? A team that was supposed to be terrible was actually crushing their schedule. Optimism has been so fleeting with this organization the last decade, fans would cling to any bright spot no matter how flawed. It simply wasn’t in the cards this year as things dissolved in an epic way, leaving Colts fans drama free, watching the opening weekend of football with their team firmly eliminated.

Yes, the Colts could have easily hosted a home playoff game at the very least. Going from king of the AFC to being eliminated from contention was a tough way to go out. Teams like the Texans who were in the rear view mirror get a chance to advance tonight while others have punched their ticket to the divisional round. Watching the Colts fall off a cliff was tough, but at least the hard part is over. We can leave the crushing disappointment of a NFL season to those left in the playoffs because only one team can win. The Colts had their chance this year and lost it. Maybe next year will be different.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ing-colts-fans-to-wonder-what-could-have-been

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

2026 Draft: Joshua Josephs Scouting Report

Measurables​

• 6‘3 Height
• 240 lb. Weight

“Why they not ringing their bells”

Never change Joshua Josephs pic.twitter.com/n82U65aFtj

— Vol Scoops (@VolScoops) September 28, 2025

2025 Stats​

• 31 Pressures (16.8% Pressure Rate)
• 4 QB Hits
• 6 Sacks
• 20.6% Pass Rush Win Rate
• 90.5 Pass Rush Grade
• 20 Solo Tackles
• 6 Assist Tackles
• 8 Missed Tackles (23.5% Missed Tackle Rate)
• 20 Run Stops
• 3 Forced Fumbles
• 1 Penalty

Tennessee’s Joshua Josephs has the third highest overall defensive grade for an edge defender in college football according to @PFF_College (minimum 140 snaps).

Joseph’s also ranks as the top run defender for an edge in CFB!

Overall Defensive Grade: 89.8
Run Defense Grade:… pic.twitter.com/aReeeUoehv

— Jordan Moore (@jordanmoore_21) October 24, 2024

Strengths​

• Explosive athlete with quick first step and acceleration. Nice twitchiness and can close in on a QB quick once he wins.
• Over 34” arms and 80” Wingspan, Josephs has incredible length for a DE and especially for his size. Can win the leverage battle and initiate first contact while not losing the length battle on the Edge.
• Has a nice Club to swipe away opposing linemen’s punch, a good push pull, and uses his explosiveness and bend well to get around the corner of the outside shoulder. Has also shown a nice bull/rip move at times as well.
• Physical player against the run, better than his size would indicate. Can also evade pullers or get under blockers arms to get penetration into the backfield on run plays.
• Frame could add more weight to it, opening up more opportunities in the run and with power moves.

Joshua Josephs | EDGE | TENN

Twitchy EDGE that generates power on initial contact & w/ counter moves. Utilizes push-pull/club/rip to attack OTs base & create a soft corner. +1st step to work high side rush.

Delivers pop at PoA, works to reset LoS. Good range to pop-out contain. pic.twitter.com/E3p9YudZz0

— Matt Lane (@Matty_KCSN) December 30, 2025

Weaknesses​

• Lack of strength and mass hurts his anchor in the run and his ability to execute bull rushes as effectively against bigger linemen. Doesn’t collapse the pocket as well in those matchups.
• Tight End combo or chip blocks push him inside and open up the outside run.
• His torso and knee bend are strong points in his flexibility, but needs to be a bit more flexible in his ankles to maximize his bend in speed rushes in the next level.
• Was a situational player, only 17 starts in college and 626 pass rush snaps over 4 years. Some potential for a larger role, but was matchup dependent on impact in the run game. If he can bulk up a bit in NFL, could have 3 down potential.

If you want physical tools and a high-upside pass rusher, Tennessee EDGE Joshua Josephs is a Day 2 guy to monitor.

Tons of length, first-step explosiveness, and knows how to set up blockers. pic.twitter.com/6b7nodhpcR

— Tyler Brooke (@TylerDBrooke) January 7, 2026

Draft Projection​

Round 2 Grade​

Josephs ranked 50th on my early December Top 100 Big Board with a Round 2 Grade. His speed, explosion, and length is a terrifying combination, and he was able to utilize them for a very high win rate over the last few years. But his situational usage in college does skew the numbers a bit, and he still has a clear area of improvement needed before being an every down player with more strength needed in his game. Tackles with more of a power profile will give him trouble, and teams with wide zone blocking schemes can exploit his issues in Tight End chip awareness to collapse him inside. When used against other matchups and schemes he thrived as a run defender, especially against pullers in man/gap schemes, so there is still potential there as a run defender.

But for a Colts team in need of a quick winner and situational pass rush, this fit is really strong. Laiatu Latu is a everydown DE with his technical refinement and being able to win with finesse while having the size to generate decent strength in power moves and holds up well against the run. However he wins more on the 2nd or 3rd step with his pass rush moves rather than pure explosiveness of the line. JT Tuimoloau is a power rusher who could step into a larger role in 2026. The Colts likely will add another pass rusher or two through Free Agency, but the need for a situational rusher to rotate in on passing downs and can generate quick wins off the line and help open up clean up opportunities for other rushers when the QB starts moving to try to evade the first rusher remains.

Highest pressure rate, SEC EDGE:

Yhonzae Pierre, Alabama: 21.7%
Damon Wilson II, Missouri: 21.4%
Keyron Crawford, Auburn: 19.7%
Cashius Howell, Texas A&M: 19.5%
Zion Young, Missouri: 19.1%
Princewill Umanmielen, Ole Miss: 18.6%
Joshua Josephs, Tennessee: 17.6%
Malick Sylla,… pic.twitter.com/U3MLh279DF

— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) November 6, 2025

Joseph’s potential growth into an every down player will be key for his longterm snap counts continuing to grow, but in the short term his pass rushing profile is very appealing for the Colts to add.

Others in the Draft Community have a Round 2-3 or Round 3 grade on Josephs, and others have him at a Early Round 2 pick. There is a decent chance he could be available when the Colts pick at 47th overall in the draft, and if there should be on a short list of players the Colts would want at that spot at Defensive End.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...448/2026-draft-joshua-josephs-scouting-report

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts sign former CFL standout linebacker Devin Veresuk to reserve/future contract

The Indianapolis Colts announced on Tuesday that the team has signed ex-CFL linebacker Devein Veresuk, formerly of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to a reserve/future contract:

we have signed LB Devin Veresuk to a reserve/future contract.

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) January 13, 2026

The listed 6,’2”, 240 pound linebacker out of Windsor was originally the 2nd overall pick of the 2025 CFL Draft. He recorded 66 tackles, 2.0 sacks, an interception, and 2 forced fumbles during 18 games played during his debut season North of the border.

He also had an interception and a recovery on a blocked punt for a defensive touchdown respectively.

Veresuk was the recipient of the Frank M. Gibson Trophy, which is given annually to the East division’s most outstanding rookie each season.

He was recently released from his contract on January 12th, to pursue an opportunity within the NFL this year—presumably with Indianapolis.

The Colts have been active at linebacker this early offseason, already signing Veresuk, as well as fellow linebackers John Bullock and Joseph Vaughn to initial contracts.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ker-devin-veresuk-to-reserve-futures-contract

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

8 Free Agents the Colts should target

While it is still early to tell who will hit the open market in Free Agency, there are plenty of teams that need to focus on gaining cap space before the League New Year in March. 10 such teams are anywhere from $5.4 million over the cap to to $58.1 million over their allotted cap room. As such, they are the most likely teams to lose their upcoming Free Agents to the open market, as they need to focus their energy on cap manipulation (restructures, extensions on current contracts, cuts/trades) to even entertain retaining players.

Most of the Free Agents listed are from some of these teams in the red, others have openly expressed frustrations with the current management of their teams with their contract negotiations, and could be difficult to retain if relations have soured.

Trey Hendrickson, DE, Cincinnati Bengals​

Stop me if you’ve heard this before.

Hendrickson reuniting with his longtime coordinator Lou Anarumo in Indianapolis would be an excellent fit. The Colts should pursue a trade signing with him to add to the pass rush and pair him with the young and growing Laiatu Latu.

There was earlier smoke with Hendrickson to the Colts trade rumors, as the Colts were interested and engaged the Bengals in trade talks while contract renegotiations broke down between them and their star pass rusher. However they wanted too much (premium draft capital and Grover Stewart) for Hendrickson who was on the last year of his deal and was 30 years old at the time (turned 31 in December).

Bengals wanted “High-End” Draft Pick and Grover Stewart for Trey Hendrickson https://t.co/aERd5KfcxN

— Stampede Blue (@StampedeBlue) October 17, 2025

Instead Hendrickson played out the final year of his deal without being traded, but his last year with the Bengals didn’t go to plan for him. He racked up 4 sacks and 21 pressures in the first 5 games before suffering what was initially diagnosed as a hip/pelvis injury in Week 6. He tried to play through it in Week 8 and reaggravated what was later diagnosed as a core muscle injury (hernia). Hendrickson ended the season with a core muscle surgery in December and being placed on IR. Thus the Bengals missed their opportunity to trade him once their season was fully derailed as he was injured leading up to the trade deadline and he wouldn’t have been able to pass the required physical at the time to be traded.

#Bengals star DE Trey Hendrickson is set to visit Dr. William Meyers in Philadelphia’s Vincera Institute as he weighs likely core muscle surgery, per me and @TomPelissero.

Surgery would knock Hendrickson, battling what is called a hip injury, out for the season. pic.twitter.com/JahhLSO2zx

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 8, 2025

Assuming the Bengals don’t reach a new deal with Hendrickson, expect the Colts to be first in line in March to sign the pass rushing dynamo. Even with his age and his recent injury, the opportunity to sign a pass rusher of his caliber while having staff that can help lure him and be the perfect fit for him is rare.

“Beginning with free agent All-Pro pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, it appears there will be no turning back this time, as both sides are currently viewed as being ready to move on.” https://t.co/aQ6QN7InsG

— BENGALS TALK 🗣 (@BengalsTalk) January 6, 2026

Hendrickson was able to get $30 million in his final season with the Bengals, but per Spotrac his market value post injury has regressed to $25.4 million. If the Colts can nab Hendrickson at this lower cost, the move could provide a lot of value if he stays healthy. With Lou Anarumo from 2021-2024, Hendrickson sacked passer 57 times (14.25 sacks a season) along with 323 pressures (80.75 a season). In 2025 he was on pace for a 13.5 sack season with 71 pressures, marks that would still be around Top 10 in the NFL among all Defenders.

For a Colts team with 3 players hitting Free Agency and desperate for a pass rushing boost at Defensive End opposite of Laiatu Latu, the risk is certainly worth the reward to invest in one of the best pass rushers of the 2020s.

Leo Chenal, LB, Kansas City Chiefs​

The Chiefs are the team most in the red in 2026, as no team is even within $14 million of their $58.1 million spending above the cap. As such, they are likely going to have some tough decisions on how to rework the cap before the season let alone to have enough to afford retaining key pieces.

Missed tackles by Chiefs LBs (300+ snaps) vs the rest of the NFL

Leo Chenal — 4 (T-1st)
Drue Tranquill — 4 (T-1st)
Nick Bolton — 21 (T-77th)

Only 84 LBs qualified.

Oh… and Leo Chenal is a FA in exactly 2 months from today pic.twitter.com/jZCBG23aC8

— The Daily Chief (@The_Daily_Chief) January 11, 2026

Chenal is one such player who is likely to hit the market. He had 58 tackles in his 14 games in 2025 (12 starts) and has been a reliable tackler with only 6.3% – 8.2% missed tackle rate in each of the last 3 seasons. The 25 year old former Wisconsin Badger had his highest Coverage Grade of his career at 72.6 and provided 11 pressures and 2 sacks as a blitzer, showing strong utility in passing downs.

Leo Chenal (#54) making a mess of the Colts pin-pull run and gets the stuff. pic.twitter.com/Blkn6GhlRK

— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) November 24, 2025

However Chenal’s season ended with a shoulder injury in Week 15, likely being the last time he suited up for the Chiefs. While he is another player dealing with an injury, unlike Hendrickson he is a young player who is still growing as a pro and could very well have his best football ahead of him. With the Colts potentially needing to add a new MIKE Linebacker and definitely needing to add the the WILL Linebacker position, Chenal’s experience at both could be a boon and help begin to rebuild the Colts defense in a younger and faster direction that Ballard said he wanted in his end of season press conference.

Alontae Taylor, CB, New Orleans Saints​

Another player the Colts expressed interest in adding in 2025, the Colts engaged the Saints in trade talks at the deadline to acquire Cornerback Alontae Taylor. However they ended up pivoting to All Pro Sauce Gardner instead. Taylor on an expiring deal would have been more affordable, but didn’t come with the same pedigree as a top WR shadower at an All Pro level like Gardner.

Colts *Almost* got a different CB at the trade deadline.

The Colts were in the mix for Alontae Taylor and had reached out to the Saints, but their home run swing connected instead and they landed Sauce Gardner from the Jets.https://t.co/EeQR5A2h0N

— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) November 4, 2025

Still Taylor does bring a lot to the table. He has split his snaps nearly 50-50 in his 4 year pro career with the Saints inside covering the slot and outside guarding the perimeter, giving the Colts simultaneously a potential succession plan for slot Kenny Moore II as he plays in his 30s and providing an outside partner to pair with Sauce Gardner.

Taylor is an aggressive corner, thriving in the press-man that Lou Anarumo loves to run with his corners and bump and run Cover 3. His physicality also shows up in the run, with 6-7 Tackles for loss in each of the last 3 seasons; as well as a blitzer with 16 pressures in 73 blitzes over the last 2 seasons. When the ball is in the air he is highly disruptive as well, with 11-16 Pass Deflections every year of his career. Due to these skills, he received All Pro Votes in 2025; albeit didn’t make either team.

If the Colts want a Saints CB…

Kool-Aid McKinstry would be a dream pickup, but not likely as a 2024 Rd2 pick.

The more likely target would be Alontae Taylor.
– Last year of his deal
– can play inside/outside
– Physical & athletic press corner
– 4 sacks in 2024
– 26 years old https://t.co/v1whNo5q1e

— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) October 25, 2025

The downside with Taylor is he isn’t the most fluid and agile corner, instead thriving in straight line speed and attacking downhill while disrupting the route early. In off coverage he has struggled, resulting in 20 Touchdowns allowed in his career. He is a very boom-bust player, able to make both high impact plays consistently but also allow too much successful plays in coverage more often than preferred if he wants to be in the upper echelon of Corners. He certainly can cause HAVOC plays and headaches for opposing defenses, which for a Colts team in need of finding support across from Sauce Gardner could very well be needed.

The Saints are also in a rough cap situation once again with $19.6m over the cap. They have routinely been in these situations since the Drew Brees days, though they are experienced in navigating it and finding ways to free up cap space in time for free agency.

Tariq Woolen, CB, Seattle Seahawks​

If the Colts want a freak athlete at Corner, its hard to find freakier than the 6’4 205 lb. corner with 4.26 speed and elite explosion. He was also one of the better cover corners in the NFL with 11 INTs and 41 Passes Deflected in his first 3 seasons prior to 2025. The Seahawks do have a large amount of cap space at $69.9 million, so they can afford to retain Woolen if they wish. So why is he on this list?

Because of the contentious beginning of the season and the questionable fit with Mike MacDonald’s scheme.

Woolen’s 2025 season is a tale of two stretches. Early on the former UTSA Roadrunner star struggled in MacDonald’s zone heavy coverage scheme. He began losing snaps in the corner rotation, even going so far as being benched at the start of games for undisclosed violations of team rules. The relationship looked to be souring and the fit with the Seahawks became questionable.

Tariq Woolen is 6’4, runs a 4.2 40 and is getting burnt by a guy who got shot

— Jaxon Smith-Njigba Enthusiast (@JSN4OPOY) September 7, 2025

Then from Week 7 onward, Woolen turned a corner. His man coverage dominance remained, but his zone coverage grade went from 45.7 to 68.1 as his completion percentage allowed went from 72.2% to 52% overall. The scheme concerns became reduced, though the Seahawks love of zone over man coverage is still suboptimal for Woolen’s strengths.

Let’s all take a second to shout out Tariq Woolen he had a rough start to the year but he didn’t let that affect him and he has since been playing the best football of his career

Shout out Tariq pic.twitter.com/Kg4cLAf3dl

— Mac (@Spoon4pres) January 4, 2026

Should he want to pursue an opportunity for a scheme that fits him better and if he harbors any grievances for how the beginning of the season played out, Woolen could decide it is time to see what the market has in store for him. The Colts could be a tempting fit with Lou Anarumo embracing man coverage when he had corners he was confident in could play man (Sauce Gardner, Charvarius Ward) outside. The opportunity to play opposite of Sauce Gardner is also very appealing, as Woolen could play against opposing offenses 2nd best Wide Receivers and have more exploitable matchups than if he went elsewhere to be the top Corner for a new team.

If Woolen makes it to Free Agency, expect a strong market for his services.

Malik Willis, QB, Green Bay Packers​

Daniel Jones is firmly in the Colts plans at Quarterback for 2026 and likely a bit beyond. But with his injury history and recovery from an Achilles, Anthony Richardson on the last year of his rookie deal after being plagued with injuries and trying to regain his full sight from his own freak accident injury, and Riley Leonard a promising but still inexperienced backup 6th Round 2025 rookie… depth and potential competition at the starting spot is needed. With Chris Ballard and Shane Steichen on the hot seat, expect the Colts to add at least one more person to the QB room to hedge their bets and try to avoid the season going sideways should injuries strike the position once again.

Still can’t get over this throw by Malik Willis. Look where Wicks is when Willis starts his throwing motion. Incredible anticipation and pinpoint accuracy. pic.twitter.com/6hnWM8Sbr6

— Brandon Carwile (@BCarwile_NFL) September 18, 2024

The Free Agent QB market is admittedly not great. It is filled with aging former starting QBs that are far from their prime, early Round 1 QB draft busts, and career backups. However Malik Willis is the one young QB in the latter category that could be ascending into a starting NFL QB after his highly efficient play in Green Bay.

Willis has just 6 NFL starts to his name in his 4 year career. 3 of them were with the Tennessee Titans, where he struggled mightily as a passer and didn’t look like he belonged in the NFL at all (outside of his dynamic rushing ability). Granted the Titans had little to no support around Willis with porous pass protection, and little to no passing weapons (just Derrick Henry in the backfield to consistently threaten Defenses), but even then the level of play was awful.

But once he got to Green Bay, things changed. Surrounded by a talented core of pass catchers, a solid pass protecting line, still having a good run game, and most importantly going under the wing of Head Coach Matt LaFleur a known strong QB developer and play-caller… things changed.

Titans Malik Willis Packers Malik Willis
*3 Starts 3 Starts
*35/66 (53%) 70/89 (78.7%)
*350 Pass Yards 972 Pass Yards
*5.3 YPA 10.9
0 Pass TD 6 Pass TD
3 INT 0 INT
49.4 Passer Rating 134.6 Passer Rating

And he’s still a high end athleticism runner. https://t.co/4D7yndCyBM

— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) December 30, 2025

Willis developed as a passer, showing much improved accuracy, touch, pre-snap recognition, better pocket movement, quicker processing, and better decision-making post-snap. The scheme around him provided a blueprint for his success, RPO and Play Action concepts with quick reads and room to improvise afterward with scrambles and moving platform throws. Throw in some QB designed run plays and you got a recipe for success so far in his career.

Willis still is highly inexperienced so his market value is at $10.4 million from Spotrac and some have thrown around a $13 million valuation for him per year. However with the lack of Day 1 starting QBs available both in the Draft (Fernando Mendoza, maybe Dante Moore if he declares, then a large tier drop off to inexperienced QBs Ty Simpson and Trinidad Chambliss if his appeal for extended eligibility fails) and in Free Agency, Malik Willis is likely to command well above market valuation by some team with a belief in his flashes.

If the Colts want another QB but don’t want to spend their reduced draft capital on a QB, Malik Willis is their best bet to find a young starting caliber QB in Free Agency. If Willis wants to go to another team with a talented group of pass catchers, a strong Offensive Line, one of the better play callers in the NFL, and have a potential opportunity to start with an actively and oft-injured incumbent QB… the Colts represent one of the better fits for Willis. Steichen has shown the ability to develop QBs in the past and has helped get Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts, and Daniel Jones to play at their highest levels in the NFL, while also being able to create a scheme that can maximize a dual threat QB’s impact in the run game (Anthony Richardson and Jalen Hurts).

Willis could find other teams with more open starting QB jobs elsewhere, and potentially for more money than the Colts are willing to offer. But if he wants to continue his development in a strong situation and try to become a franchise QB able to make the real big bucks long term, Indianapolis might be the place to be.

The Packers don’t have the cap space to retain Willis ($10.2 million over the cap) and have their starting QB already in Jordan Love. Willis will be on the move in 2026, just a question of where he lands.

Jadeveon Clowney, DE, Dallas Cowboys​

If the Colts want to add a lower cost but high upside pass rusher, bringing Jadeveon Clowney back to the AFC South makes sense. Over the last 3 seasons Clowney has been with the Ravens, Panthers, and Cowboys respectively, Clowney has made an impact at each stop with strong run defense and efficient pass rushing.

2023 | 2024 | 2025 Clowney splits

– 78 | 44 | 40 Pressures
– 14.3% | 12.7% | 17.6% Pressure Rate
– 16.7% | 14.9% | 16.7% Pass Rush Win Rate
– 9.5 | 5.5 | 8.5 Sacks

All while providing stout run Defense. Might be more of a rotational player at age 33, but still a valuable DE.

— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) January 13, 2026

The 2014 1st Overall pick still has some production left to squeeze out in his NFL career. This pass rushing mercenary might be tempted to get some revenge on the Texans after a contentious contract negotiations ended on them trading him to the Seahawks.

At soon-to-be age 33 Clowney likely isn’t going to be an every down starter in 2026. His snap counts have decreased in each of the last 3 years from 757, 650, to 372. Still in that span he has been worth just $2.5 million to $6 million in cap space, with age and injuries of yesteryear lowering his cost.

Cowboy’s Jadeveon Clowney had 8.5 sacks in his last 9 games.

He only played 12 games. With a full 17 games he was on pace for 12 sacks and 16 sacks if we take out the transition period.

Jerry Jones needs to sign, draft, or trade for another Edge, but bring back Clowney. pic.twitter.com/EEpAm7pSYU

— Magic Bronson (@MagicsBurner) January 4, 2026

His end of season play likely ups his next contract’s value a good amount. Considering the Colts paid Kwity Paye $13.4 million off of his 3rd year option and kept Samson Ebukam coming off of his Achilles injury and costing $10.9 million, its safe to say the Colts are willing to invest in Edge Rusher based off of potential and in spite of injuries and age (Ebukam was 30 in 2025). Signing an actively health

The Colts could find a potential bargain in Clowney for the short term and it wouldn’t bar them from pursuing other Defensive Ends in the Draft or Free Agency. Establishing a strong rotation of Defensive Ends is often a cornerstone of some of the best pass rushes in the NFL, and Clowney still has enough juice to be part of an ensemble of rushers.

Bryan Cook, S, Kansas City Chiefs​

As previously mentioned, the Kansas City Chiefs are in the worst cap situation in the NFL right now. Expect several departures from the former champions this offseason barring a dramatic and aggressive cap restructuring, which isn’t likely with star QB Patrick Mahomes sidelined and his 2026 season in doubt.

Another such player is Bryan Cook, a versatile Safety who Chiefs Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has used in a variety of ways. He can lineup as a Single High Free Safety, load up the box as a Strong Safety, or at times cover the slot.

Highest-graded #Chiefs players this season, via @PFF:

C, Creed Humphrey (88.8)
S, Bryan Cook (83.5)
LB, Nick Bolton (78.9)
4) CB, Christian Roland-Wallace (78.8)
5) WR, Rashee Rice (76.4)
6) DE, George Karlaftis (76.2)
7) LB, Drue Tranquill (76.2)

*minimum 150 snaps* pic.twitter.com/nWg449MMZz

— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) January 11, 2026

Cook is a high IQ player who was able to fit in multiple schemes in college as well, displaying strong coverage instincts and range. He reacts quickly to the ball in the air and has improved his hip fluidity over time to improve his coverage abilities in man. He can fly to the ball and is a physical hitter. Overall his tackling has improved a lot in the pros going from a 15.6% missed tackle rate in 2023 to a 5.6% in 2025. His biggest issues are mostly in ball skills, as he doesn’t rack up INTs but more so deflections.

I wonder if folks realize how good Bryan Cook has been this season.

— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) December 26, 2025

Still only 26 years old and showing a lot of desirable traits, Cook should be a well sought after player in Free Agency. If the Colts want to move in a different direction from the highly athletic and strong run supporter but still fine tuning his coverage instincts Nick Cross to a more polished and developed safety to pair with Cam Bynum in Lou Anarumo’s scheme which asks a lot from it’s safeties mentally, Cook could be a natural replacement.

He won’t come cheap as his Spotrac Market Value is projected at $14.6 million and at his age he will likely be looking for a longer term deal. If the Colts want to complete their Defensive Backfield remodel with another investment, Cook is potentially the best one on the market to pursue.

Al-Quadin Muhammad, DE, Detroit Lions​

Another veteran pass rusher, Al-Quadin Muhammad is a name Colts fans should remember. Previously he played for the Colts under Matt Eberflus’ scheme, filling the role of a run stopping Defensive End who didn’t offer much in pass downs (11 sacks in 4 years, 7.3% Pressure Rate). Despite this, Muhammad earned major snaps in Eberflus’ Defense, from as low as 483 in 2019 to as much as 800 in 2021 when he started the entire season, much to the frustration of Colts fans and analysts who wanted to see more snaps for Kemoko Turay (when healthy), Denico Autry, Justin Houston, and later Kwity Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo.

But the funny thing about development is, it doesn’t always happen in the timeframe you expect.

Colts potential FA DE options

Old/injured was a stud before: Mack, Hendrickson, Joey Bosa, Reddick

2021-2022 Draft Class looking for new contracts: Odafe Oweh, Boye Mafe, Malcolm Koonce, Joseph Ossai, Joe Tyron, Azeez Ojulari, David Ojabo, Arnold Ebiketie

Surprise Reunion: AQM https://t.co/IrMthDJVw4

— Jay Robins (@TheJayRobins) December 24, 2025

At age 30, he is now the 2nd leading sacker for the Detroit Lions in 2025 behind only Aidan Hutchinson with 11 sacks. His pressure rate is 15%. He is doing all of this pass rush production coming off the bench without starting a single game for the Lions.

EDGE Al-Quadin Muhammad on his Free Agency market, via @burchie_kid:

“I will go where I’m valued at… I would love to be back here, but you ultimately go where you’re valued.” pic.twitter.com/Yq4Fpqws1x

— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔱𝔯𝔬𝔦𝔱 𝔗𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰 (@the_det_times) January 6, 2026

Suddenly a reunion in Indianapolis sounds nice.

Was 2025 a one year wonder for AQM? Or did Dan Campbell do a strong job at developing the veteran Defensive End into a pass rushing force going forward in his career? Did Aidan Hutchinson open things up for him with his double teams

AQM delivers a Christmas sack of his own#DETvsMIN Netflix pic.twitter.com/UhDqUvzEr0

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 25, 2025

Because of the small sample size of effective pass rushing at his age, teams will have hesitation to back up the brinks truck for Al-Quadin Muhammad, making him another opportunity for the Colts to add to their pass rushing rotation without breaking the bank. He still wants to be rewarded for his breakout season naturally, but this hesitation has his Spotrac valuation at $8.2 million, a real bargain for teams looking to get a potential 10+ sack Edge. Expect him to get a short term deal somewhere for roughly that amount per year (maybe more if a bidding war develops).

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian.../120575/8-free-agents-the-colts-should-target

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

2026 Draft: CJ Allen Scouting Report

Measurables​

• 6‘1 Height
• 235 lb. Weight

2025 Stats​

• 71 Solo Tackles
• 23 Assisted Tackles
• 8 Missed Tackles (7.8%)
• 39 Run Stops
• 2 Forced Fumbles
• 29 Receptions Allowed / 43 Targets = 67.4%
• 288 Yards Allowed
• 9.9 Yards Per Reception
• 217 Yards After Catch Allowed
• 7.5 Yards After Catch Allowed/Catch
• 1 TD Allowed
• 0 INTs
• 3 Pass Break Ups
• 93.9 Passer Rating Allowed
• 13 Pressures / 86 Pass Rush Snaps = 15.1% Pressure Rate
• 0 QB Hits
• 3.5 Sacks

It's a great year to need a LB. Sonny Styles is still LB1 for me, but Georgia’s CJ Allen isn’t far behind.

The run game instincts, physicality, and athleticism are all there, and at just 20 years old, he’s just tapping into what he can be. I’d bet he finishes as a top 30 player… pic.twitter.com/AvS1J3ZTTt

— Steve Letizia (@CFCBears) December 8, 2025

Awards/Accolades​

• Consensus All American (2025, Sporting News and Associated Press First Team)
• First Team All SEC (2025, Coaches & AP)
• Butkus Award Finalist (2025, nation’s top linebacker)
• Lott IMPACT Trophy Finalist (top defensive player with IMPACT: Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, Tenacity)

CJ Allen has been named a @sportingnews First-Team All-American #GoDawgs pic.twitter.com/3dbh9ueii3

— Georgia Football (@GeorgiaFootball) December 18, 2025

Strengths​

• Going to test very well at the Combine. Fast and rangy on tape with smooth hip flips and quick agility paired with explosive high jumps to contest catches. His track background is apparent immediately in his running form and speed in pursuit.
• Very reliable tackler, missed tackle rate throughout his career at Georgia was 6% (2024) to 8.9% (2023) range. Uses nice technique and wraps up well. Both can bring down both powerbacks and scatbacks.
• Strong run game instincts, can sift through blockers to find the hole and meet the back there. High Football IQ in IDing run plays and knowing where to go downhill.
• Has some pop behind his pads in his hits, will fly to the ball and delivers a big hit to dislodge the ball.
• Can take on blocks well with good leverage and anchor.
• High Effort, plays through the whistle and doesn’t give up on the play in pursuit.
• Praised for Leadership and commitment to helping the community off the field. Leads by example. Team Captain.

#Georgia LB CJ Allen was terrific vs. Florida pic.twitter.com/rekEX0OkEC

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 2, 2025

Weaknesses​

• Mental mistakes in coverage, while he can do well in shadowing Tight Ends and Running Backs in Man and has range to follow Wide Receivers in Zone, there are issues of missed assignments and leaving zone open.
• Play Action causes hesitation in getting to his dropbacks, creating openings in the middle of the field.
• Can over pursue to try to meet the back, opening up cutback lanes.
• Could get bigger to improve power in block shedding, relies on finesse and low pad level.

CJ Allen (#3) out of Georgia is probably the best down-hill, run thumping LB in this class.

He may be a little one dimensional in that regard, but he’s so damn good in run defense, it will put him in that Top 50 conversation. pic.twitter.com/463gi9uuux

— Newt Westen (@NFLDraft_Westen) December 15, 2025

Draft Projection​

Round 1-2 Grade​

In my initial Big Board Top 100, I gave Allen a Round 1-2 Grade and he was #39 Overall. The consensus is that Allen will likely be taken toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2. The odds of him reaching the Colts at pick 47 aren’t great according to most, but with crowded and talented Linebacker class slips can happen.

1. LAR: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
32. DEN: LB CJ Allen, Georgia

PFF’s Latest 2026 1st Round Mock Drafthttps://t.co/G4eUZNT7uE

— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 9, 2025

CJ Allen has flashes of being a 3 down impact Linebacker. His combination of top end athleticism, fluidity, downhill anticipation, and tackling prowess is covetable immediately and he has some impressive coverage reps to boot. Tack on clear leadership traits and constant high effort and you got a MIKE Linebacker to lead a defense.

But there is still things to work on, with coverage instincts and play fake recognition being the core ones.

These are coachable, but until corrected are exposable. Aggressive Blitz Scheme Defenses will love CJ Allen as they won’t put him in coverage situations as often or try to keep his assignments simple in coverage. But the warts are there that keep him from being a Round 1 Grade or even blue chip Linebacker prospect in this talented class.

He is still only 20 (turn 21 in March) and was a 30 game starter in Kirby Smart’s Georgia Defense over the last 3 years. Allen might not have even reached his athletic peak yet (a terrifying prospect for opposing offenses) and has time to continue to fine tune his dropback instincts. The flashes are there, and teams will take CJ Allen expecting the best is yet to come.

For the Colts, Allen wouldn’t fulfill their coverage needs for the middle of the field at first. If the Colts added him, it would be to replace Zaire Franklin as the starting MIKE Linebacker, become a new young leader of the defense, and attack downhill early on his career. Allen would provide a major boost in athleticism, tackling, and hustle in the middle of the defense, helping set the tone for a likely retooled front. More additions would still be needed to find his partner on the weak side at WILL Linebacker for more coverage ability in the short term, but under Lou Anarumo’s tutelage the hope would be that Allen would hone his coverage instincts over time to pair with his athletic gifts for a big leap in his drop back abilities.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...al/120024/2026-draft-cj-allen-scouting-report

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

After the bye, the Colts simply said “bye” to winning

I have never really seen anything like it. Given that it has been thirty years since a team started 8-2 and missed the playoffs and I am thirty-seven, it stands to reason why. That is a long time ago, and seven-year-old me wasn’t watching much football. We all know the story at this point, but what are the “why’s” we can point to in order for us to properly digest the massive fall from grace the Indianapolis Colts experienced in the second half? Here are a few thoughts.

One of the most obvious reasons is that the competition stiffened: Chiefs, Texans and Jaguars twice, Seahawks, and 49ers. With the exception of the Chiefs, all of those teams made the playoffs. Now, with the exception of the Jaguars, all of those teams are in the divisional round. Beating up on the Titans twice and the Raiders made fans feel good, but it inflated team stats and skewed the optics of how good they really were.

Anytime a team loses its starting quarterback, it hurts. No matter how serviceable Philip Rivers was, swapping him for Daniel Jones was a downgrade. That isn’t to say Jones wouldn’t have gone winless too, but let’s be honest when talking about a five-year-retired player making a comeback versus an established and active player. Injuries to other players had an impact, but which team didn’t suffer injuries? Outside of quarterback, other arguments seem moot.

Going back to the argument of higher quality opponents, the offense wasn’t nearly as efficient in the second half. In the wins, the Colts averaged over 35 points. It started with Pittsburgh but carried over post-bye in which their average sank to 20.7. While understanding a good offense helps the defense, all the blame can’t be placed on one side of the ball. In the wins, the defense gave up 19, but after the bye, that rose to 29.4. Like two ships passing in the night but in the wrong direction, the second half of the season was doomed.

I am sure there are more X’s and O’s others can point to, but the big picture remains clear: a tough schedule meets losing your quarterback which turns into a lack of efficiency on both sides of the ball. It is as simple as that. Does that mean the Colts had to go and lose every game after the bye? Of course not, but it is plain to see why it happened. Expectations were low this season, and the Colts overperformed early on. The law of averages came back around and brought them back to reality. Regardless of the reason, it is still remarkable that the Colts took a break and literally said “bye” to winning.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-the-bye-the-colts-simply-said-bye-to-winning