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[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts announce 2026 coaching staff additions

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 04: Head coach Shane Steichen of the Indianapolis Colts takes the field during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Indianapolis Colts announced the following coaching staff additions for the 2026 campaign, with the biggest hire being defensive line coach Marion Hobby as previously reported:

our 2026 coaching staff.

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) February 23, 2026

Colts.com does an exceptional job here of recapping their past experience, which I’d recommend checking out for their individual backgrounds—and won’t simply regurgitate here.

Barring any last minute moves, their coaching staff is apparently full right now.

Once it was announced earlier by team ownership that head coach Shane Steichen was coming back for the 2026 campaign (along with longtime general manager Chris Ballard), there wasn’t expected to be much turnover, assuming that both coordinators: Jim Bob Cooter (offensive) and Lou Anarumo (defensive) returned.

Colts passing game coordinator Alex Tanney also interviewed for the once vacant New York Giants offensive coordinator position—along with Cooter, but will also return as the passing game coordinator for Indianapolis.

While both coordinators, Cooter and Anarumo, recently garnered coordinator or head coaching interviews elsewhere respectively, it appears that the coordinator pair will return to Indianapolis for at least one more season. Aside from veteran collegiate defensive line coach Charlie Partridge departing to Notre Dame, and fellow veteran coach Marion Hobby being reportedly his replacement, it was a relatively quiet coaching offseason for the Colts—aside from some slight assistant coaching shuffling here-and-there.

That should only help the Colts from a continuity perspective entering this early offseason, but if the current coaching staff doesn’t get the job done this upcoming season, there could be major changes coming in Indy—starting with Steichen and carrying over to nearly his entire coaching staff.

From the Colts ownership’s perspective, it would seem reasonable that both offensive line coach Tony Sparano Jr. and wide receivers coach Reggie Wayne would be retained—regardless of what changes happen elsewhere.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian.../colts-announce-2026-coaching-staff-additions

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Offseason vision to steer Colts back into playoff contention

WESTFIELD, IN - JULY 26: Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen talks to Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard during the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp on July 26, 2023 at the Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Indianapolis Colts brass delivered a unified message about the most important offseason priorities inside the Indiana Convention Center, which includes signing quarterback Daniel Jones and receiver Alec Pierce to long-term contracts. Colts General Manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen did not come to make headlines at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, but rather reinforced the direction of the franchise.

Both Jones and Pierce were ranked inside the top 10 of the annual NFL’s top free agent rankings, with Pierce listed as the top receiver at No. 5 overall, while Jones was listed as QB2 at No.8, in an article released by NFL.com. Prior to Jones’ unfortunate Achilles tear, there’s an argument to be made that they were two of the best ‘bang for your buck’ tandems in the entire league. Ballard and Steichen remain confident that Jones will be ready to roll for training camp and can deliver tremendous value under center like he did in his first 10 starts in Indy.

It still takes two to tango, so the negotiation window will have to be driven toward the hope of hammering out long-term deals before either player can scour free agency in March. Ballard emphasized the Colts do not want to rely on the franchise tag and showed a clear preference to collaborate on a deal, rather than use a leverage tool to negotiate with core players.

“We will continue to work this week and see if we can get something done,” Ballard said in Tuesday’s news conference at the combine. It’s been very positive. Look, when both sides are driven to get something done, it usually works out in the right way.”

The same philosophy applies to Pierce, who emerged as one of the league’s top deep threats over the last two seasons. Pierce has led the NFL in yards per catch (22.3 ypc in 2024, 21.3 ypc in 2025) in consecutive seasons. Another striking fact is Pierce finished with an absurd 41 first downs on just 47 catches. His 87% first down conversion rate was also the highest in the league among qualified pass catchers. Steichen complimented his ability to make plays downfield, but also noted the strides that Pierce has made on intermediate and in-breaking routes.

One of the more intriguing insights from Tuesday’s combine session was the Colts’ draft approach to discover hidden gems without a first-round pick. The Colts need to sharpen the depth chart, not dismantle it, so the approach in the upcoming draft will require consistent hits with seven total picks spread across Days 2 and 3. Ballard did mention that he anticipates having “more when it’s all said and done”. As the scouting combine begins to pulse through Indy and draft boards take shape, Colts scouts and evaluators are searching for the traits to revamp a defensive unit with younger and faster front seven, including linebackers and pass rushers.

There feels like some urgency to see results from Steichen in 2026, who enters a pivotal fourth season at the helm. The Colts ended the 2025 season exposed in a stunning collapse that featured seven straight defeats after an 8-2 start. Steichen struck an unmistakable competitive tone that emphasized physicality, generating more explosive plays and improving situational execution.

Steichen highlighted the need to reestablish an improved run game for running back Jonathan Taylor, stressing better schemes to create cleaner runways. Taylor rushed for 1,585 yards on 323 carries and led the league with 20 total touchdowns in 2025. To sustain a successful run game, Steichen intends to study more ways to lean on his workhorse.

The physical teams can win ugly battles and the teams that create explosive plays can separate from their competitors. The teams that excel at situational football thrive past December. Steichen spoke on the key details that decide playoff races, whereas Indianapolis has struggled when faced with adversity down the home stretch of his first three seasons. The focus will shift toward more attention to two-minute drills, sudden-change situations and increased practice intensity.

NFL teams will have plenty to watch on the field of Lucas Oil Stadium this week in Indy, but the words from the podium speak volumes of the moves expected ahead of the 2026 season.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...n-to-steer-colts-back-into-playoff-contention

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

A Visitor’s Guide to Downtown Indianapolis Food & Drinks

Indianapolis has been proud to host the NFL Combine for nearly 4 decades, which has served as not only the biggest pre-Draft event in the NFL Calendar for testing athleticism and getting official measurements; but also get medical checks, interview with prospects. Teams, agents, and media get to network, interview, and prepare for the Draft in a true Convention of Football beyond just the official locations of the Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. While those two locations are famously close to each other, the walkable downtown Indianapolis (or easily drivable greater Circle City area) provides tons of restaurants, bars, and hotels for the rest of the Combine’s more unofficial proceedings to take place in a convenient locale.

As a born and raised Indy local, I have served as an unofficial ambassador/tour guide of Indianapolis for some of my close associates visiting Indianapolis for the Combine for a few years now. Leading up to the Combine various contacts across the NFL landscape have messaged me asking about the best places to eat and drink in Indy, how to navigate the skywalks to avoid being outside too often in case of inclement weather that can befall our city in late February/early March, and various other tips and information about the city. Call it Hoosier Hospitality, call it working in the service industry for a decade, or call it just being nice. Whatever it is, I’m compelled to help our new visitors enjoy their stay in Indianapolis.

As long as no one picks fights when visiting Indianapolis (behave yourselves); they are welcome to enjoy the Crossroads of America. For regular Colts fan readers, consider this an unofficial guide to downtown Indianapolis and become a part of this project by commenting other Indianapolis staples visitors to our fair city should check out while in town! Let’s show our Circle City pride and help make our guests to the city feel welcomed!

Steakhouses​

St. Elmo’s Steak House $$$$​

Most casual Indy visitors have definitely already heard of St. Elmo’s. Rest assured, it is deserving of the hype. The Shrimp Cocktail sauce packs a fresh horseradish-laden punch to the sinuses, the Steak is first class, and they have a good cocktail menu with a lot of variety. There is a reason it was a favorite for many celebrities and Colts players over the years visiting downtown; and it has earned its reputation over its 124 years of operation in Indy (one of the oldest restaurants in Indianapolis).

We will miss those victory dinners too, Peyton. #PeytonManningRetirement pic.twitter.com/hISYQ1Jjff

— St. Elmo Steak House (@stelmo) March 7, 2016

But at the same time, this reputation is a double edged sword. Demand for St. Elmo’s is high, even outside of the Combine. The wait times for a table at St. Elmo’s downtown can be egregiously long this time of year, so either OpenTable a reservation well in advance, go to it’s companion restaurant Harry and Izzy’s next door and hope its quicker, or go to another Harry and Izzy’s location on 82nd Street by the Fashion Mall (25 minute drive from Lucas Oil Stadium without heavy traffic, but even with traffic it could be quicker to drive and get a table there than wait at the original location during the Combine).

Visitors to Indy can even experience the same iconic recipes (albeit with some menu limitations) as early as stepping off of their plane by going to the Harry and Izzy’s in the Indianapolis Airport in Concourse A. This might be the most time efficient option as visitors arrive or prepare to leave Indianapolis.

The Eagle’s Nest $$$$​

Need to get a view of downtown Indianapolis’ skyline and a bite to eat? Eagle’s Nest offers both with a 360 degree rotating view of downtown, strong steaks and seafood options, as well as a fun variety of seasonal drinks. Definitely recommend getting there while there’s still sunlight so you can see the sunset from there, as well as not informing others you are dining with of the rotating view to see how long it takes for them to notice (discreetly set a timer).

The Fountain Room $$$$​

Located in the Bottleworks Hotel on Mass Ave (the former largest Coca-Cola Bottling plant in the world, now turned hotel and shopping district), the Fountain Room offers a mix of delicious customizable steak, waygu beef for burgers and meatloaf, and fine dining seafood options of King Crab legs and oysters. The aesthetic might be a departure from traditional steakhouses, but it still has plenty of classic Steakhouse food options to try.

Historic Coca-Cola Bottling facility
Hotel, theater, food hall, office, retail, apartments & more.

Arepas, coffee, cocktails, baked goods & movie popcorn all in one spot. So well done!

(Bottleworks District, Indianapolis) pic.twitter.com/zd8HGgsC3j

— Merrill Stillwell (@stillwell) May 25, 2024

The Art Deco locale of the Bottleworks District is also filled with other strong dining options to try (more on them later), a Pins Mechanical Company for drinks and duckpin bowling, a Sandbox VR for virtual reality gaming, and various shops and spas to explore as well.

Honorable Mentions​

• Tony’s of Indianapolis $$$$
• Prime 47 $$$$
• Commission Row (right by Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of Pacers) $$$$
• Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse $$$$
• Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse $$$$
• Dean’s Steak & Seafood $$$$

The first category of Steakhouses was filled with high end and expensive places. Sadly the more affordable steakhouses are chains, which goes against the guide’s purpose to give visitors new experiences of local Indianapolis food/drinks. So the listed Steakhouses might not be for everyone’s budget. But this guide isn’t just for the national media, top agents, and head coaches/GM’s who want blow their travel budget on the fanciest feasts around Naptown. No, this guide is for EVERYONE. Thankfully other categories provide more price ranges.

Italian​

Iaria’s Italian Restaurant $$​

Last year several of my fellow media associates wanted to get affordable, high quality local food within walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium after watching the workouts and drills, but not feel out of place walking in with casual wear. After some discussion the group came to the consensus they wanted Italian food/pizza.

great night in the Annual “IndyStar alumni, friends of Robin Miller, David Benner & John Bansch” gathering at Iaria’s.

It is a pleasure and honor to be included. pic.twitter.com/n5eQf2UbiV

— Jake Query (@jakequery) December 10, 2025

So naturally I suggested a location near and dear to family’s history: the location where my parents went on their first date. Iaria’s has been around Indianapolis in various forms since 1913 (initially as a grocery store before being turned into the restaurant in the 1930s, then moving to it’s current location in the 1950s) and the family owned Italian restaurant has kept using its original family recipes through 4 generations of ownership and management. It might not have the glitz and glam of the aforementioned steakhouses, with its aesthetic being a classic diner/dive bar tavern; but Iaria’s brings a warm atmosphere with great sauce in their chicken/veal, thin crust pizza, and pasta dishes that are staples of authentic Italian cuisine. It’s proud of its tradition and has stood the test of time for a reason.

Iozzo’s Garden of Italy $$​

Another Italian family of grocers turned restauranteurs, The Iozzo’s family restaurant was a staple of the downtown dining experience of Indianapolis in the late 1920s-1940 has a multi-use venue of restaurant/bar/music hall/night club. However after tragedy befell the location the original Iozzo’s closed down for over 70 years; until generations later the Iozzo family reopened a new Iozzo’s downtown in 2009 with a mixture of traditional family recipes and new additions.

Grab a three-course lunch from Iozzo's Garden of Italy for only $15 during #DevourIndy! pic.twitter.com/zinbxCCk0O

— Devour Indy (@DevourIndy) August 7, 2016

The new restaurant goes back to basics with a bar and restaurant rather than the music hall/night club origins, and the ambiance is more of a traditional classy Italian restaurant with white table clothes mixed with lovely outdoor seating (sadly not available if cold front continues) and rustic red brick touches. The wait times can be a lot so be sure to reserve a table ahead of time. If you get there early order the $1 Oysters special for happy hour 3-5pm; though that might be offered only on Mondays.

Vicino $$$​

For more of a modern Italian vibe, head to Vicino’s. Another bar/restaurant with a modern current aesthetic. On weekends Vicino’s offers a brunch as well. A newer player in the downtown food scene, Vicino’s has racked up some awards as of late with a People’s Choice winner for Devour Indy’s Cocktail competition this past February (Indiana Weather cocktail), and one of the Top 25 Restaurants in Indianapolis Monthly in 2024.

Part of the Mass (Massachusetts) Ave hub of food, entertainment, drinks; if you can’t get a table at Vicino luckily there are plenty of nearby restaurants within walking distance of it.

Rosemary & Olive $$​

A charming new eatery on Mass Ave that arrived in 2024, though its ownership trio (Stergiopoulos of Meridian Street’s Greek Islands, Giorgio’s Pizza owner Ozdemir, and Indianapolis restaurateur Pizzi) all bring unique touches of efficiency, friendly vibe, and detail orientation respectively.

Their vibe is cozy, and the menu is very pasta heavy with some Greek influence mixed with Italian. Their short rib ravioli stuffed with mirepoix and Romano cheese is sensational.

Outside of Downtown Honorable Mentions​

• Mama Carolla’s $$ (in a charming house-turned-restaurant on the north side near Broad Ripple. Girlfriend definitely recommends their cannolis for dessert)
• Ambrosia $$$ (classy and delicious Italian restaurant from Gino Pizzi, have been there a few times and ordered something different each time and have yet to find a miss)
• Capri Italian Restaurant $$$ (another Italian restaurant that has stood the test of time since 1951. Very classy establishment. Has a sister restaurant in Granger, IN near South Bend so if guests also enjoy it and want to go somewhere nice near a Notre Game game, Capri is a great bet).
• Sangiovese $$$ (another Pizzi restaurant since 1994, though the ownership has changed hands since 2000. However the kitchen has been managed by Chef Cisco for over a decade and has been consistently highly rated. Strong wine selection as well, was a Wine Spectator Award Winner for their in depth menu and knowledge on Brunellos and Super-Tuscans. Cool location at the Ironworks Hotel north side.)

Pizzerias​

Some of the Italian Restaurants listed above are still on the pricier side (though not as much as the aforementioned steakhouses). Not to worry, the Pizzerias of Indianapolis have a wider range of price points that can appeal to everyone’s wallets while not skimping out on quality. Expect casual dining unless otherwise noted.

King Dough $​

Might as well start with the King. From towing around a brick oven behind their pickup truck to sell their pizzas to Bloomington students at IU in 2014 to opening up their first restaurant in 2019; the husband-wife duo of Adam and Alicia “Mama Pizza” Sweets have come a long way in their culinary journey. The duo’s “Thunderdome” wood-fired pizza oven cranks out 14” Neapolitan-inspired pizza. Definitely recommend either the Destroyer or the Butcher.

2 for Tuesdays! Any menu pizza and any large salad for $25! #naturallyfermentedpizza #handpulledmozzarella #pastureraisedmeats #local #kingdough #kingdoughpizza #kingdoughindy #bloomingtonindiana pic.twitter.com/pmL00a9dB6

— King Dough Pizza (@KingDoughPizza) September 3, 2019

Winners of Best Pizza in Indianapolis in 2025 per IndyStar, the newcomers have quickly risen in the Indy pizza market.

Bazbeaux $-$$​

Winner of Best Pizza in Indianapolis from Indianapolis Monthly/IndyStar used to be an annual award to Bazbeaux for nearly 2 decades straight. From 1986-2003 Bazbeux reigned supreme with their New York style pizzas in their original Broad Ripple location of an old gravedigger’s house (along with the downtown location opening up in 1989). Both restaurants moved just steps away from their original locations afterwards for more seating, as demand has been high for years for Bazbeaux. They even opened up a location in Carmel to meet the demand there for north side customers.

Bazbeaux pizza best in Indy. Hands down

— Clint Fink (@Clint_Fink) August 14, 2018

Bazbeaux still has been a strong competitor in pizza contests in Indianapolis, showing that the classics still hit the spot.

Futuro $​

If you want Chicago-style or Detroit-style pizza, Futuro offers some of the best in the city at both. A 2021 post-COVID debut to the restaurant scene in an old diner turned into a Yelper’s paradise, where its earned 2nd place on Yelp’s Top 100 Pizza Spots in the Midwest.

—zesty. It’s a near perfect Detroit style, although the picture isn’t great. Second pizza was tavern style with bacon, ricotta, goat cheese, jalapeño, and hot honey drizzle. Another absolute banger. They hype is real! 4.50/5.00 #halfthepizzaeverybodyknowstherules pic.twitter.com/RO9ALrhuid

— Chase Hiland (@Chase_Hiland) April 3, 2021

Their fresh daily-made dough and sauces are strong additions to the Indianapolis food hierarchy. If you need thicker pizza to warm you up, Futuro is a good bet.

Napolese $$-$$$​

Just by the name you can probably have a guess what style pizza they have here. A classic of Naples thin crust pizza, if you get a heavy topping pizza like the Meridian Kessler (long cut Pepperoni, sausage, button mushrooms bursting with flavor) be sure to fold your slices to avoid falling toppings. A bit classier joint with Olives brought for the table, it’s a sensational pizza place that can also have some interesting appetizers and salads (Veggie chopped with the beats and blue cheese is awesome).

Goodfellas $​

Another New York style by the slice pizza place, this casual pizzeria is intense when it comes to proportions. Slices are enormous. The breadstick feeds two. They sell some solid black and white cookies. With their classic New York iconography littering their walls the place screams Big Apple.

Come for the pizza, stay for the Wiseguy Lounge speakeasy out back (more on that later).

Outside of Downtown Honorable Mentions​

• Diavola $
• Pizzology $$
• Puccini’s $
• Brozinni Pizza $
• Greeks Pizza $
• Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza $
• Roca Bar $
• Some Guys Pizza $$
• HotBox Pizza $

Chicken​

America’s favorite meat gets its own category, as theres some strong chicken joints around town that get rave reviews.

Ale Emporium $$​

Honestly Ale Emporium could’ve been in the prior category with their deep dish Chicago pizzas. But if you’ve ever been to Ale, you know their signature isn’t in the pizza (even if it is really good).

Another great night of Indiana Sports Trivia! Ale Emporium in Greenwood is such an awesome host.

Thanks to all who played and congrats to the winners! pic.twitter.com/QdTJVuykJn

— Matt Taylor (@MayTayColts) February 20, 2026

Get the Hermanaki Wings. A spicy teriyaki bursting with flavor and just enough heat to keep you warm. Ale Emporium can be a noisy bar/tavern with live entertainment some nights, so it might not be the easiest place to discuss business. But if you need casual, entertaining, and good eats while needing to watch a game; Ale is a top choice.

World Famous HotBoys $$​

Technically a California-chain, I’m willing to forgive my no non-local chain rule just this once since they have no locations outside of their prior 5 in Cali. And besides, we can’t talk Indy chicken without HotBoys.

JERRY APPROVES OF THE MOST DELECTABLE, JUICY YET CRUNCHY, HOTTEST CHICKEN IN THE WORLD @wfhotboys pic.twitter.com/tQWyxrv6AP

— my name’s jerry (@liveatjerrys) October 28, 2024

Near the Commodore Speakeasy (more on that later), this Nashville style hot wings brings the heat and offers delicious sauce to dip your chicken into. If you need a great fried chicken spot, hit up HotBoys.

His Place Eatery $$​

Got a taste for Soul Food? Go to this husband and wife owned establishment and the Jones’ cook up red velvet chicken & waffles, collard greens grill cheese, and so much more. The pairing of Jones’ family recipes and formal cooking education has created a unique soul food experience that doesn’t need to be heavy or fried to be enjoyed (but still tastes great if it is).

Delicious soul food without the “itis”? Sign me up.

Breakfast/Lunch​

Shapiro’s Delicatessen $$​

A classic staple of downtown Indianapolis food scene since 1905, this former local chain of restaurants is down to its only location, the original spot within walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium. A regular game-day spot for Colts, Pacers, and Fever fans, this large delicatessen has an old-school cafeteria deli atmosphere with food served on a tray line.

Sorry, Indianapolis…I won't be able to do the show tonight because I've run away with this sandwich from @ShapirosDeli. #ABRoadEatsIND pic.twitter.com/a7trnBMQGf

— Alton Brown (@altonbrown) May 3, 2017

The Baked and Fried Chicken are both sensational, the sandwiches are thick and filled with juicy bites, and the hot Matzo Ball soup is a chills killer for a winter day.

Café Patachou $$​

A mix of French and American breakfast and lunch cuisine, this place advertises itself as a “student union for adults” vibe. A mixture of French style Omelets, thick bread cinnamon toast, and some strong salads along with some fun cocktails; this Café has quickly gained popularity and locations around town.

Latin​

Livery $$$​

Another Yelp Favorite, Livery made the list of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the US. This two story former horse stable from the 1890s has been transformed into a casual Latin food hotspot with outdoor rooftop patio seating. They take no reservations but while you wait you can get drinks most nights. Their empanadas and savory pies filled with a large variety of ingredients have been well renowned.

29. Livery

“Livery brings Latin flair and flavors to Indianapolis dining, in a restored 1890’s building that once stabled horses. We're a two-story, casual gathering place with rooftop seating under the stars. We're a part of the Cunningham Restaurant Group”

… pic.twitter.com/y4Gssv7Gg6

— Alex Golden (@AlexGoldenNBA) February 15, 2024

Fernando’s $$​

No relation to Fernando Mendoza, but I did hear Fernando by ABBA being sung by staff in the kitchen after the National Championship win. This Mexican-Brazilian fusion restaurant was created by a Mexican-Brazilian family winning the lottery and combining their cookbooks to make a unique Latin cuisine experience since 2023. With a location in Mass Ave and another in Broad Ripple that’s moving to a new location in Broad Ripple for more space… its safe to say the family’s reinvestment in themselves paid off.

Named the 2025 Main Street Small Business of the Year by the IEDC and Indiana Small Business Development Center, they have been quickly gaining esteem in the Indianapolis food scene. From their Feijoada (black bean stew), savory Picanha (sirloin cap), and Crawfish quesadillas to their signature cocktails and margarita flights, it’s quickly became a top spot to eat in Indy.

Julieta Taco Shop $$​

Sometimes a restaurant can overwhelm you with choices on a menu. Julieta offers an escape from that with a very simplistic and small menu. You can get a few different kinds of tacos. You can get tortas. You can get quesadillas. There are a handful of toppings/add ons. If you want drinks your options are soda and water. That’s it.

Finally checked out Julieta taco shop in The Stutz. It was en fuego! pic.twitter.com/GmOIeW4pti

— Daniel N. Hoffman (@YangHoff) March 5, 2025

But with this simplicity comes consistently high quality specialization. Julieta’s has some of the best tacos in the city. This 4 year old Taco shop is small with a few seats but there are seating options beyond it in the nearby Stutz building it is a part of with other shops and restaurants and bakeries inside and shared communal seating if need be. If you want a Taco to go though, get some Julietas.

Condado Tacos $$​

A local chain of Mexican restaurants, Condado’s delivers customizable tacos and some great guac, queso, and salsa options. They also have some protein packed bowls like the Swole Bowl for those who want some workout fuel. The margarita flight there is really good and they have a good bar variety. The downtown location is on Mass Ave, with plenty of other shopping and dinning/drinks options around to explore.

Asian/Seafood​

Modita $$​

Modita is another Bottleworks District restaurant with some serious skill in the kitchen. Chef Megan Stoller won the Best dish at the Taste of Home and has competed in several World Food Championships with Chef Collin Hilton winning in 2025.

Hamachi roll, Tuna, Steak Bulgogi.

IF YOU’RE EVER IN INDIANAPOLIS, get your ass to Modita, it’s my favorite restaurant in the state. pic.twitter.com/hbJIcJzq05

— Pants (@EYECANTFAIL) July 7, 2025

Despite this level of acclaim, Modita is a pretty casual place that isn’t crazy expensive with most options on the menu. Filled with fantastic sushi, dim sum, noodles, rice, and robota grilled specials and with a full bar; it brings a balance of a great meal and a comfortable atmosphere.

Bodhi​

If you have any minors younger than 21 with you, scroll elsewhere. Otherwise this family owned Thai bar/bistro was awarded one of USA Today’s Best Restaurants of 2025 with three generations of the Phojanasupan family’s women owning and operating this establishment. Filled with craft cocktails amazing curry and spiced foods, this place is a delight.

Hasuno $$​

Another family owned restaurant, Hasuno and its sister restaurant Tegry Bistro to the north have a great selection of fresh seafood, sushi, buckwheat noodle dishes, and sake/Japanese cocktails. All while presenting a naturally calm yet modern atmosphere. This Fountain Square restaurant might not have national acclaim yet, but this hidden gem punches well above its weight as some of the best Japanese food in Indianapolis.

Slapfish $$​

Slapfish is a fast-casual chain that is starting to expand beyond its 3 locations in Indianapolis (one in LAX airport) after getting strong acclaim in 2016, 2017, and 2022 award seasons for its sustainability, trendsetting, and emerging brands respectively.

Lobster BLT w house-made bacon. Slapfish Raw Bar in downtown Indianapolis. The grilled, thick-cut sourdough actually steals the show. pic.twitter.com/4qGSZ0HMVR

— Chef Andrew Gruel (@ChefGruel) November 16, 2021

From boat-to-plate sourcing and high quality seafood Slapfish has some strong top dishes from their Lobster Rolls to their Clobster Grilled Cheese and Epic Shrimp Burrito.

Salt On Mass $$$​

Another Mass Ave staple, Salt on Mass highly regarded for its fresh seafood. The Chilean Sea Bass is a standout here along with scallops, lobster Mac and cheese, and crab cakes. For a sweet treat the girlfriend the recommends the key lime chiffon cake.

The atmosphere is more on the modern classy side so it won’t be for all attire, but with a nice upscale bar and customers craving good seafood inland it attracts a good crowd most nights.

FortyFive Degrees $$​

Winner of the Best Sushi Restaurant of Indianapolis in 2024 was FortyFive Degrees from the Quality Business Awards. The 18 year old sushi restaurant is named after the 45 degree corner of Mass Ave and College that it sits at, with plenty of seating but can have a decent wait time due to its reputation. Its modern atmosphere brings a ton of energy into the room, and it is frequently bustling with diners. Reservations are recommended.

Sports Bars​

Kilroy’s $​

An iconic staple of the IU Bloomington student bar scene, Kilroys is a bustling sports bar that keeps to its college town roots and often has Indianapolis students from IUI and Bloomington alums flocking to it on game days and weekends.

️ “I’m not just giving money so you can bid the highest — you have to know how to build a team.

But I’ll put it this way…with that money…you’re buying Kilroy’s.”

Mark Cuban on his huge NIL donation, why it grew this year, IU’s approach to building a team, and how he was… pic.twitter.com/jClMqAsNik

— Tricia Whitaker (@TriciaWhitaker) January 12, 2026

Be prepared for crowds on peak days, but you can certainly watch games here with a passionate fan base of Indiana sports fans.

Tom’s Watch Bar $​

Do you want wall to wall covered in TVs to not miss a single game anywhere in the country? Tom’s Watch Bar lives up to the name and fills that need with insane coverage with 140+ screens. On top of Sports coverage, their beer and cocktail variety is insane with over 50+ of each. With solid classic bar food as well, if you don’t want to miss any games Tom’s is the way to go.

The Hangar $$​

The Hangar offers a few different ways to enjoy food and drinks as well as several activities. In warmer weather you and a group can get a pedal bar and tour around Indy while drinking and a guide drives for you. For Cold February days you can instead opt to stay inside their full service bar and restaurant with a wide variety of pints and drinks, a woodfire pizza oven, and 150” TVs to watch the games while being located right in between Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium.

As fans as activities go if you are able to book ahead of time you can get access to steel tipped video dart games, DIY crafting (glass painting, wood burning, Laser etching tumblers, T-shirt/hat making) for a homemade souvenir, or play indoor Golf/hook up 15 ft Mario Kart. For a crowd that’s looking to drink and do something, the Hangar offers a fun variety of activities.

High Velocity $$​

Located right in the enormous JW Marriott. High Velocity offers a large scale bar and restaurant with plenty of TVs while not trying to overwhelm with entire walls of screens. Feels more like a food centric restaurant disguised as a sports bar. The bar is still the centerpiece and you can get all the classic bar foods there, but there menu is filled with other non-fried options and a wide array of appetizers that if you get a table seat comes on a giant serving board called the Touchdown Tray to share family style.

Recommended for large and hungry parties to go to if they want to be right next to the action as it’s within walking distance of Lucas Oil and Gainbridge as well as within home run distance of Victory Field (but would take an insane and frankly impossible foul fly to get anywhere close to the restaurant based on the size and angle of the baseball stadium).

Honorable Mention of Non-Sports Bars​

• The Rathskeller (iconic Bavarian German outdoor biergarten that can suit so many styles with upscale dining rooms and a lively Kellerbar with a wide array of imported beer.)

The Rathskeller in downtown Indianapolis—the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Ind., in fact—has to be one of USA's most glorious German restaurants, with a world-class, Munich-style beer garden. Missed these old stomping grounds. Going strong since 1894. pic.twitter.com/wv1XC5M0zR

— Josh Green (@JoshGreen1234) July 12, 2024

• Slippery Noodle Inn (oldest bar in Indiana as it’s been around since 1850, has live blues and jazz music, and large portions of food. Can be loud but hearty with excellent reviews and a true throwback rustic feel).

The Haunted Legacy of The Slippery Noodle Inn, Indiana

Step into the storied past of The Slippery Noodle Inn at 372 S Meridian St in Indianapolis, Indiana, the state’s oldest bar where blues, history, and spectral whispers intertwine!

HISTORY
Opened in 1850 as Tremont… pic.twitter.com/16ogY6hOKS

— Real Proof Paranormal (@RR_Paranormal) May 4, 2025

Breweries​

Indianapolis has undergone a transformation of breweries over the last few decades, with several excellent brewers creating a deep well of local beers sure to be found in many local bars and restaurants around town. If you want to go to the source you will find plenty of in-house exclusives and regular access to their seasonal rotations, as well as a diverse mix of food options to pair with their brews.

St. Joseph’s Brewery & Public House $$​

Debuting in 2015, St. Josephs is one of the smaller breweries around town. But they have quickly gained acclaim by winning the Indiana Brewers’ Cup within their first few years of existence with their Benevolent Belgian Blonde (Gold), and the Confessional IPA (Bronze) alongside their Sanctuary Saison (Bronze) medalling highly.

In case the breweries’ name and beer branding didn’t tip you off, St. Joseph’s location is in the historic former Catholic church of the same name that has been in Indianapolis since 1873.

Indianapolis is crazy because I just stepped into a random church in downtown Indy and it looked like this

(St. Joseph Brewery & Public House, last used as a church in the 1940s) https://t.co/zuckZAsuTZ pic.twitter.com/fgF64bBcaB

— LiterateIndy (@LiterateIndy) February 24, 2026

However the Church hadn’t held mass since 1949 and was only used as a Catholic community center for the next 6 years afterwards, as the old Lockerbie neighborhood became more industrial instead of residential. Eventually the area shifted to be the bustling and gentrified Mass Ave area and the old Church finally was bought and repurposed for its modern Brewery.

The Brewery has a solid amount of screens at the bar for sports entertainment, and the atmosphere is child friendly in the restaurant dining area. Sunday Brunch also includes a build your own Bloody Mary bar as well for the adults. Overall the food is delicious and well proportioned and the beers have a wide variety of flavors and styles and the vibes inside are laidback and fun.

Sun King Brewing $$​

Sun King began with two friends who worked in various brewery and bartending jobs around Indy who decided to create their own brews together in 2005 in their spare time. By 2007 they became highly awarded earning three Great American Beer Festival medals, two Festival of Barrel Aged Beer medals, dozens of Indiana Brewer’s Cup medals, and were awarded the 2007 Indiana Brewery of the Year title despite their initially small and cramped brewery. By 2009 they had their first full kegs rolling out the door, becoming Indianapolis’ first full scale production brewery since Indianapolis Brewing Company closed in 1948.

Today marks a historic moment in beer history – the triumphant return of the iconic Indianapolis Brewing Co! With a profound nod to IN's brewing heritage, Sun King proudly unveils the reimagined all-malt premium American lager. Available at Sun King locations in 6-packs! pic.twitter.com/gjgEtDvPCN

— Sun King Brewery (@SunKingBrewing) December 29, 2023

Now they are the 2nd Largest Beer Brewery in the State of Indiana with 5 Brewery locations all throughout Indiana, an Indianapolis airport bar, and one brewery in Sarasota Florida; as well as scoring highly in national and International Brewing competitions.

Their top-tier, must-try beers include the flagship Sunlight Cream Ale, the highly decorated Pachanga Mexican-Style Lager, and the popular Wee Mac Scottish Ale. They also produce popular IPAs like Osiris and GFJ.

Metazoa Brewing Company $$​

Another new player and fast riser in the Indianapolis Brewing landscape, Metazoa began in 2016 and by 2021 was voted Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival. What stands out about their brewery is they REALLY love animals. Each brew is named after a different one and has an accompanying design of it on the can and 5% of all of Metazoa’s profits go to animal charities from shelters, rescues, zoos, and reserves/sanctuaries in Indiana, the Midwest, and beyond. The Brewery itself is very pet friendly so if you want to meet local pups while getting a beer this is the place for you.

⁠Kick off your week right with a beer and some quality time with your pup at our dog park! We’re open from 1-10 p.m. today, so swing by and enjoy a cold brew while your furry friend has a blast. Cheers to a great start to the week! pic.twitter.com/qypwxvzS6Z

— Metazoa Brewing Co. (@MetazoaBrewing) September 17, 2024

The downside to their pet friendliness is that having a kitchen is not allowed so the food provided is snacks from a pair of local Chip and Pretzel companies, but there is nearby eats within walking distance of Metazoa if visitors need more food instead of drinks. Hoppopotamus IPA, Puppy Slumber Party Peanut Butter Stout, Nap in the Hammock Cream Ale, Wicked Pawsome New England IPA, and Trash Panda Blonde Ale are the most popular brews of their selection.

Upland Brewing Company $$​

One of the more established brands of Indiana Breweries with its origin dating back to 1998 in Bloomington, this Brewery has become the signature beer for Indiana University and has a diverse portfolio of drafts and a regional powerhouse with distribution to 20 States. They are a gastro-brewpub popular Dragonfly IPA, Hoosier GameDay Ale (with accompanying IU Candy Cane Cans), Two of Tarts Sour being some of their most popular.

2025 National Champion Hoosier Gameday Lager Commemorative Can COMING SOON ⁰⁰Next month, shelves across Indiana will be restocked with this special addition “Hoosier Beer”, featuring the official Indiana 2025 National Championship logo, gold stars and gold Indiana script… pic.twitter.com/7DYsAxc4YA

— Upland Brewing Co. (@UplandBrewCo) January 28, 2026

Their most historic is the Champagne Velvet Pilsner, which was originally the Flagship beer of Terre Haute Brewing (which was the 7th biggest Beer producer in the US before shutting down in 1954.) and had a diehard yet mythologized fan base before the recipe was rediscovered in the 1990s and started a small microbrewery locally in Terre Haute before closing and the rights to it was acquired by Upland in 2016. If you want a fresh taste of history, head to Upland.

Taxman Brewing Company $$​

Taxman began in 2014 out of Bargersville, Indiana just south of Indy in an old general store that underwent transformations as a bank, arcade, and hardware store before becoming Taxman Brewing. Their downtown location is a former livery horse stable that pulled coal wagons for Indianapolis Power and Light Company before being moved across the street from its foundations for a new development and transformed into its current gastropub with live music and large events right next to the Pacers Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Taxman has become a central player in transforming its hometown and giving other smaller breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries across Indiana and the Midwest platforms with its annual Death & Taxes Day Beer Release & Tasting Festival each April since 2015.

@taxmanbrewing won a gold medal in the prestigious Brussels Beer Challenge! Ask for the beer named Qualified to try the award winner for yourself. #festcountryin pic.twitter.com/XXDyLqoJAL

— FestivalCountryIN (@FestCountryIN) November 30, 2020

Their style is Belgian brewing where a trio of its founders originally met and “researched” a variety of local options before returning stateside to start their own version of the flavors they fell in love with abroad with experimental home brews. Their most decorated beer won a Bronze at the Great American Beer Festival for their Qualified Quadrupel ale in 2015 and has since racked up 3 GABF medals, a Gold in the Brussels Beer Challenge, 5 European Beer Star Awards, and 3 Best in Style from the World Beer Awards.

Speakeasies​

For guests looking for some mystery and exclusivity, Indianapolis has hidden gem speakeasies. Some require passwords to enter, though there are nearby hints available that visitors can find to get access to these high quality yet secretive establishments that remind us of Prohibition Era nightlife.

Bootleggers​

“Bootleggers is on point. (That’s a hint.) This brick-walled bunker is gritty in all the right places, with plenty of classic cocktails to choose from. You’ll need a password to enter the underground speakeasy, but if you need a hint — or a snack — you can find it at the restaurant upstairs. Hint, hint.“

That is all Visit Indy is willing to share with Bootleggers. Its is underneath The Flatiron on Penn if you need to navigate to find the clues, but that is all you will get out of this writer about its whereabouts and code.

Commodore​

Fountain Square’s speakeasy in the Murphy Building, upstairs you can find a game room, an old school duckpin bowling alley, a burger joint, and a rooftop bar with a great view. But go downstairs and you will find this dark and lush Speakeasy open for business.

No password required here, just a lack of signage and a downstairs basement that’s easy to miss hiding a bar with a wide variety of drinks and liqueurs (including some rare bottles if you want a taste of something hard to get anywhere).

The Vault​

Enter a heist movie with a bank vault entrance and a 4 digit password separating you from accessing this treasure of a speakeasy. Hint: If we’re going to work together, I want it understood I take no orders. This speakeasy loves its theme, with mugshots of infamous bank robbers all over the walls.

There is live Jazz every Thursday so this bar & grill can get noisy then but very lively. Kitchen closes earlier than the bar so break in early if you want food with your craft cocktails.

Wiseguy Lounge​

There’s no external signage for Wiseguy Lounge, which is hidden in plain sight along Mass Ave. Named one of the Top 50 Speakeasies in the United States and Canada, Wiseguy Lounge embodies the energy and ambiance of the ‘20s. Think rich leather sofas, low lighting, well-dressed bartenders, and elite bourbons, with more than 400 available. Located right behind Goodfellas Pizza, this spot is right in the middle of the bustling Mass Ave and hits the spot after a mid bar crawl snack from the storefront.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nflgeneral/120925/a-visitors-guide-to-downtown-indianapolis-food-drinks

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

PFF lists Colts breakout, new lead wideout as team’s top franchise tag candidate

JACKSONVILLE, FL - DECEMBER 07: Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) warms up before the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Indianapolis Colts on December 7, 2025 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

According to PFF’s Bradley Locker, Indianapolis Colts wideout Alec Pierce is their project franchise tag candidate for the Horseshoe among a listing of each of the NFL’s 32 teams:

Indianapolis Colts: WR Alec Pierce

The Colts could ostensibly deploy the franchise tag on either Daniel Jones or Pierce, but the latter feels more likely given his radiating market.

Pierce was one of the better receivers in football last year with an 81.0 PFF receiving grade, 2.10 yards per route run and a 2.1% drop rate. Further, his 97.9 receiving grade slotted ninth among qualified wideouts.

Considering that Pierce’s next contract should wind up around a $28 million AAV, the franchise tag seems like a reasonable play for the Colts if they’re wholeheartedly committed to retaining the 25-year-old. Meanwhile, in Jones’ case, almost all signs point to a reunion — and potentially an extension before the new league year.

Honestly, it was realistically between Pierce and starting quarterback Daniel Jones among potential options.

While Pierce shouldn’t surpass Jones in average annual value on his next contract, he could attract a wider array of potential suitors—should he actually hit the open free agency market. So far, Pierce has seemingly been connected to almost every NFL team that could be looking for a wide receiver upgrade this early offseason.

Meanwhile, there are only a handful of starting quarterback openings for Jones, and all signs are that he wants to return to Indianapolis and be paired with head coach Shane Steichen again, where he was in the middle of a career year before critical injuries struck down the final stretch—including a season-ending torn Achilles.

Per Spotrac, Pierce is currently projected to earn a 4-year, $81 million deal. However, that number seems a bit low given the rabid fever of NFL free agency these days (just look at former Colts defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo last offseason, who signed a 3-year, $48 million deal with the Chicago Bears in free agency).

The 25-year-old Pierce caught 47 receptions for 1,003 total receiving yards (21.3 ypr. avg.) and 6 touchdown receptions during 14 starts in 2025. As arguably the league’s top deep threat, he led the league in average yards per reception for a consecutive season while with the Colts. However, Pierce has become a more well-rounded route runner all together since entering the league as Indianapolis’ 2nd round pick back in 2022. His elite ability to separate vertically, high point the football, leap, and make highly contested, acrobatic catches is special.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-wideout-as-teams-top-franchise-tag-candidate

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Report: Colts to allow Anthony Richardson to seek a trade

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 21: Anthony Richardson Sr. #5 of the Indianapolis Colts looks on in the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Indianapolis, IN — The NFL Scouting Combine is back home this week as the on-the-field portion kicks off later today in Lucas Oil Stadium, the very event that popularized quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. and deemed him the most athletic quarterback prospect in NFL history, according to Relative Athletic Score.

Fast-forward three years after being drafted 4th overall by the Combine’s hometown team, the Indianapolis Colts, and Richardson is planning for a fresh start elsewhere as he heads into the final year of his rookie contract. The Colts are honoring his wishes and have permitted him to seek a trade, according to ESPN’s Stephen Holder.

Richardson’s infamous inexperience as a prospect was his biggest concern heading into the league, though his injury history certainly rivaled it. After three seasons in the NFL, both concerns have combined to serve as foreshadowing thanks to hindsight bias.

Anthony Richardson has suffered seven different injuries throughout his short three-year career thus far. Couple that with his uninspiring statistics, and it checks out why both sides are ready to move on.

177-350 (50.6%) for 2400 passing yards, 11 TDs, 13 INTs, 67.8 passer rating, 3 game-winning drives; 115 rushes for 634 rushing yards, 10 TDs, 10 fumbles in 15 games started

Unfortunately, this is by no means surprising. Richardson has more or less been one foot out the door for quite some time now. The writing was starting to be on the wall after he lost the starting job to Daniel Jones, though a small chance remained even after the fact. The only shot he had to reclaim the throne in Indy was to right the ship after Daniel Jones tore his Achilles, but alas, a freak injury warming up pre-game derailed yet another opportunity.

As far as potential suitors and compensation go, it’d be hard to imagine the Colts will net anything more than a single Day 3 draft selection, though QB-needy teams are prone to desperation. Richardson’s 2026-27 cap hit is set to be $10.8m — a pricey backup, but a 1-year shot that may just be worth the gamble to some teams, especially considering that the potential suitor in question will only need to pay $5.385m in salary by trading for his services.

Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network recently reported that the Minnesota Vikings and Anthony Richardson have mutual interest, a potential pairing foreseen since Richardson’s rookie season after a loss to Minnesota when Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell — who famously pushed for Richardson — was captured from a mic’d up segment where he embraced the young, inexperienced quarterback, and offered him both advice and support from afar.

It’s been a series of unfortunate events for both Anthony Richardson and the organization during this experiment. Both sides have failed one another, and now they’re collectively facing the repercussions. In a new age of teams banking on reclamation projects, organizations across the league now have the opportunity to do the same with one of the most athletic players in NFL history, who turns just 24 years old in May.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...s-to-allow-anthony-richardson-to-seek-a-trade

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts leaked 2026 NFLPA team report card has a lot more good marks than bad

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - AUGUST 16: Owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon (R) watches during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 16, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Even after an arbitrator recently ruled they couldn’t be disclosed publicly, ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler was able to obtain the NFLPA’s leaked 2026 NFL team report cards—including that of the Indianapolis Colts:

Indianapolis Colts​

Treatment of Families: B
Home Game Field: D
Food/Dining Area: B
Nutritionist/Dietician: A-
Locker Room: C+
Training Room: B
Training Staff: B+
Weight Room: B
Strength Coaches: A
Position Coaches: B
Offensive Coordinator: B
Defensive Coordinator: B+
Special Teams Coordinator: B+
Team Travel: B-
Head Coach: A-
General Manager: A
Team Ownership: A
Overall Rank: 17

As a reminder, these are grades given out by each team’s players via an annually conducted NFLPA survey.

Here are some of this year’s highlights:

• Even though the Colts recently installed new artificial turf, Hellas Matrix Helix turf, back in July of 2024, they were still given a poor ‘D’ grade for their Lucas Oil Stadium playing surface. That change was made as part of a regular 4-year replacement cycle and to meet the NFLPA’s own recommendations that NFL clubs switch from their prior slit-film turf to monofilament turf (via the Indianapolis Star).
• While some blame the Colts artificial home playing surface for their players’ seemingly frequent injuries, ironically enough, the players actually gave their strength coaches an “A” grade here.
• The Colts top leadership trio of ownership (A), general manager (A), and head coach (A-) all received excellent grades—which given their lack of recent team success, is at least a bit surprising at both general manager and head coach at least. The recently transitioned ownership under the three Irsay daughters, with Carlie Irsay-Gordon as team owner and CEO at the forefront, has brought new energy, perspective, and may even aggressiveness (i.e., looking at the Sauce Gardner trade deadline deal) compared to her late father in his later years. Meanwhile, I won’t beat a dead horse on the lack of winning by both the Colts head coach and longtime GM anymore, but it does appear that they still have their players’ respect regardless. Ballard has always been lauded for being upfront and for his candor in private conversations, and maybe received an extra bump here by being loyal internally—and often retaining his own players ahead of free agency.

In the end, the Colts ranked 17th, so slightly worse than league average. However, they’ve gone from 22nd in 2024, to 19th in 2025, and now, to 17th, so they’ve been gradually making small improvements each year.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...report-card-has-many-more-good-marks-than-bad

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

The vision for Anthony Richardson and the Colts is clear

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. (5) spins the ball on his finger Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, ahead of the game against the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

After suffering a gruesome and unlucky injury, it appears Anthony Richardson is back to full strength. If you are asking yourself which injury I am referring to, unfortunately, that is the right question to ask. Richardson has faced more than his fair share of ailments with the Indianapolis Colts during his short tenure with the team. It now seems like things are finally clearing up.

It is being reported that Richardson has full visibility back in his eye after that freak orbital fracture. That is fantastic news. While never wishing him any harm, something like that would have gone way beyond football. Having his vision back is huge and seems to be the reason trade news is reaching a fever pitch.

With a clean bill of health (for now), Richardson is drawing intrigue from several teams across the league. Maybe my news feed is incredibly skewed towards Colts football, but with the amount of people talking about his trade request, one would think his level is closer to Peyton Manning than Curtis Painter. There appears to be a buzz, and the Colts must take full advantage. Talk is cheap but if a handful of teams are interested in Richardson, the Colts might walk away with a great deal more than anyone expected.

A fifth-rounder seemed like the best the Colts might be able to do a few weeks ago. Maybe they could squeeze out a fourth if they were lucky. Talk around the water cooler now has some fans believing maybe, just maybe, there is a team willing to slide a third-rounder Indy’s way. That is a deal you take every day and twice on Sunday. Ideally, Richardson will get a fair shot at being the starter for his new team to make it a win-win.

Things didn’t work out. That is the sad reality. Who failed who is an article for another day. For now, the Colts have granted Anthony Richardson his trade request, and the early results are encouraging. However it turns out, here’s wishing Richardson the best of luck. Hopefully, he has learned from his mistakes and matured so his next opportunity is his best.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...for-anthony-richardson-and-the-colts-is-clear

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

NFL Combine: 5 Colts front seven targets

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 26: Players gather at the start of the 40-yard dash during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 26, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Indianapolis, IN — NFL Scouting Combine festivities kicked off earlier this week with media availability, with yesterday marking the first of four days of on-the-field workouts.

The initial wave in question was comprised of front seven defenders — the defensive line and linebacker rooms — coincidentally, the same position grouping that Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard specified on Tuesday that the team is looking for.

Earlier in the offseason, Ballard revealed that Indy is looking to get ‘younger and faster’ on defense; when we met with him this week, he reiterated a similar sentiment, though this time he made it clear that linebackers and defensive linemen are the main goal(s).

With that being said, we’re going to cover five different prospects who not only showed out at Lucas Oil Stadium yesterday evening, but fit the Colts both in type as well as projected draft range.

Jacob Rodriguez​

Linebacker – 6’1”, 231 lbs

Placing fifth in Heisman voting (and 3rd in 1st-place votes), Jacob Rodriguez demanded headlines during his last season at Texas Tech. Leading the Red Raiders to the College Football Playoff, Rodriguez tied a single-season NCAA record with seven forced fumbles to pair with his four interceptions — a true takeaway machine.

His leadership and knack for the ball should alone be enough for the Colts to covet, but then you add in his top-tier athletic testing. Perhaps this is wishful thinking coupled with recent nostalgia, but Indy has been missing a playmaker at linebacker since Shaquille ‘Darius’ Leonard and Jacob Rodriguez could fill said void.

A special athlete with top-notch production.

Jake Golday​

Linebacker – 6’4”, 239 lbs

Initially a defensive lineman at Central Arkansas, Jake Golday’s evolution to a full-time Power 4 linebacker at Cincinnati is a cool story. We chatted a bit the other day during his media availability, to which he said that he felt his instincts at backer are still being underrated.

As far as his athletic profile goes, Golday checks most of the Chris Ballard era boxes. Running a cool 4.62 sec 40-yard dash and testing in the 90th+ percentile in explosion (vertical and broad jumps) grade, Golday’s a work in progress that the front office could talk themselves into taking a shot on.

Dani Dennis-Sutton​

Defensive End – 6’6”, 256 lbs

With only a handful of defensive linemen currently under contract for the 2026-27 season, addressing the trenches via the NFL Draft feels inevitable. Though they’ll miss out on the top options due to foregoing their first-round pick as part of a package for star cornerback Sauce Gardner, Days 2-3 of the draft will be Indy’s sweet spot this year.

Dani Dennis-Sutton is an intriguing project to take a swing at. A steady contributor, he was impactful in all four of his seasons at Penn State despite playing alongside 2025 NFL Draftees Abdul Carter (3rd overall) and Adisa Isaac (93rd overall), culminating in 25 tackles for loss and 17 sacks over his last two seasons.

Lee Hunter​

Defensive Tackle – 6’3”, 318 lbs

A member of Texas Tech’s ridiculous front four, Lee Hunter became a fan favorite amongst draft circles during the All-Star events, specifically at the Senior Bowl.

Although the Red Raiders’ defense was littered with talent, Hunter was the straw that stirred the drink across the defensive front. Offering reliable push on any given down, it makes perfect sense that this double-team eraser is beginning to receive his flowers as scouts, analysts, and fans alike can watch him do his thing with a spotlight.

As for his fit with the Colts, his athletic profile certainly would be an outlier compared to that of Ballard and Co.’s past. The reason I’m including what history suggests to be a long shot is that Indianapolis is in win-now mode. They’ve recently begun to deviate from the norm, and adding Lou Anarumo’s preferences to the mix could help push them into new territory altogether. After all, the defensive duo of DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart won’t be around forever.

Malachi Lawrence​

Defensive End – 6’4”, 253 lbs

Malachi Lawrence started turning heads during the East-West Shrine Bowl and hasn’t stopped since, with his most recent installment setting the NFL Combine on fire. Not only did Lawrence run a 4.52 40-yard dash at his size, but he also dominated the explosive-based workouts, posting a 40” vertical and 10’10” broad jump. Not to mention his ridiculous 33 5/8” arm length.

Lawrence was a 3-year starter who remained at UCF for all four years of his eligibility. Though he never eclipsed 10+ sacks, he was productive early in his career and remained as such, totaling 27.5 tackles for loss and 19.5 sacks as a starter. If general manager Chris Ballard taps into his old ways of athletic freak with flashes, Lawrence feels like the guy. He is certainly younger and faster than what the Colts have been deploying as of recent.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...21905/nfl-combine-5-colts-front-seven-targets

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

How much stock should the Colts put in the combines?

It is widely observed that Chris Ballard tends to draft players with a well above RAS (Relative Athletic Score). He is often given grief about this choice, fair or unfair. I have little doubt that the score is a factor in his draft process, but I would venture to guess that it is not at the top of his criteria. It may well, however, be a tie-breaker if the decision is close between two players. I obviously do not have any facts to back this up, but I won’t let that get in the way of the story.

I may be overstepping again here, but I would look at the roster and think that the defense needs more attention in the draft and free-agency than the offense, as long as the contracts for D. Jones, A. Pierce, and M. Pittman are not still looming. CB got in front of the microphones and told us that we need to be younger and faster on defense. I think this statement focused largely on the linebackers and edge rushers, but could include an aging Kenny Moore.

I may be wrong again, but free agents are not often “younger”? They can still be fast, but if they are chasing a second contract, they have some time in the league. To me, this would indicate that a free agent signing might be more likely at the DT position, than some of the positions that need to get younger and faster. This makes the draft the most likely place to find some speed and youth on the defensive side of the ball.

If a guy like Rodriguez ran a bad 40, would it take him off of our board? We have been clamoring for football players over athletes, but I don’t think anyone disagreed with CB’s assessment for the need to get younger and faster. How much input will Lou have? We have some sort of indication of his likes, based on the picks from last year. J.T. had a good RAS, but did not run the 40 or the 3 cone drill. Walley ran 4.4ish with a broken wrist, but he had a relatively poor RAS. Wohler actually had the highest score of the three picks.

Given those selections, it appears that Lou might look at functional speed over measured speed, which I think a lot of us could get behind. If a guy gains a step or two because he has quick recognition or better anticipation than others, he will be where he needs to be without that great 40 time.

I think the bottom line is that this draft needs to produce at least one starting LB and he needs to be one that can be an asset in coverage. It would be great if we also were able to land a pass rushing specialist, but it may be hard to turn a 2nd or 3rd round pick into a starting DE or EDGE. A more realistic goal would be to get one that develops into a starter after a few weeks.

I’ll be curious to see if CB’s win or go home situation produces a different draft strategy. What do you think?

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ch-stock-should-the-colts-put-in-the-combines

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts QB Anthony Richardson has reportedly regained full vision—and an already interested trade suitor emerges

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - AUGUST 16: Anthony Richardson Sr. #5 of the Indianapolis Colts warms up before the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 16, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to The Athletic’s James Boyd, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who’s recently been granted permission by the team to seek out a trade, has regained full vision in his injured right eye:

“Richardson’s representation also provided the Colts with medical documentation Wednesday night that shows Richardson has regained his full vision after suffering an orbital fracture in October, the source said via Boyd. “Those medical records will also be provided to any of Richardson’s potential suitors.”

“‘He has 20/20 vision in both eyes,’ the source said.”

Now, it should be taken with the caveat that this latest medical update is coming from Richardson’s representation, and it behooves the 23-year-old quarterback to have a more robust trade market among potential active trade suitors with a truly clean bill of health going forward.

Those same suitors would presumably be more hard-pressed to trade anything significant for a young, but oft-injured quarterback with added lingering vision limitations instead—and at the league’s most important position at that.

As far as possible suitors are concerned, the Minnesota Vikings have become the early frontrunner to trade for Richardson, and there’s already reported mutual interest between the two sides.

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell reportedly coveted Richardson before the 2023 NFL Draft team, as there’s been speculation that they tried to trade a king’s ransom to snatch him early on in that year’s draft before Indianapolis ultimately rebuked their attempts and made him their latest franchise quarterback hopeful.

Not to mention, O’Connell’s on camera post-game offering words of encouragement to Richardson following a prior matchup during Week 9 of the 2024 season.

Having fired Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, presumably for allowing Super Bowl Champion quarterback Sam Darnold to leave while drafting the struggling JJ McCarthy, the Vikings are looking to improve their starting quarterback play this offseason—by at the very least, bringing in direct, bona fide competition to challenge McCarthy for their starting QB1 job.

Richardson would seem to fit a lot of that bill—albeit not perfectly.

He would find himself in a starting quarterback competition for a consecutive offseason, and coincidentally, the same franchise that Colts incumbent starting quarterback (albeit pending free agent) Daniel Jones left prior to joining Indianapolis last offseason.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...nd-an-already-interested-trade-suitor-emerges

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

ESPN NFL Insiders list Colts Kwity Paye as ‘free agent sleeper’ among league execs

BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 7: Kwity Paye #51 of the Indianapolis Colts runs around the edge during an NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 7, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, Indianapolis Colts starting defensive end Kwity Paye is included in their handful of ‘free agent sleepers’ they heard buzz about among league executives at the NFL Combine this past week in Indianapolis:

Colts pass rusher Kwity Paye: He could be the fourth rusher on the market behind Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips and Odafe Oweh. He has 30.5 sacks over 74 starts.

Originally a 2021 first round pick of the Colts, the 27-year-old veteran defensive end, always with impressive physical traits out of Michigan, hasn’t developed into the high-impact outside pass rusher that Indianapolis was ideally hoping for when they made him that draft class’s 21st overall pick.

Having made 74 starts over the past 5 seasons, with 30.5 career sacks during that same span, Paye’s calling card has actually been in run defense, where he routinely sets the edge and holds his ground out there.

Even though not spectacular, Paye’s become a solid starting defensive end for the Colts—although arguably not worth his prior first round draft pedigree at this point in time.

Similar to former Colts teammate, and fellow 2021 draft class member and defensive end, Dayo Odeyingbo, it’s possible that Paye could find a surprisingly robust external market once he hits free agency.

As you’ll recall, Odeyingbo signed a 3-year, $48 million deal with the Chicago Bears last offseason, but also offered more projected versatility and pass rushing. Also, at 25-years-old when signing with Chicago last year, Odeyingbo had more theoretical upside and potential than Paye at that time respectively.

Longtime Colts general manager Chris Ballard has already stated this offseason that Indianapolis needs to get younger and faster among its front seven defensively next year. Does that mean moving on without Paye?

With both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and wideout Alec Pierce as their upcoming priority free agents, the Colts may be hard-pressed to also bring back Paye, with their available team salary cap space at a premium.

Outside of ascending 3rd-year edge Laiatu Latu, the Colts face a lot of question marks at the defensive end position, as veterans Samson Ebukam and Tyquan Lewis are also pending free agents along with Paye.

For what it’s worth, Spotrac currently projects Paye to earn a 3-year, $53.6 million deal on his next NFL contract.

The Colts currently have a projected $33.2M of available team salary cap space, but have some flexibility to free up more, particularly as it relates to wideout Michael Pittman Jr.’s looming projected $29 million cap hit, which doesn’t seem realistically sustainable, with their existing team needs and greater priorities elsewhere.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...paye-as-free-agent-sleeper-among-league-execs

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Reportedly far apart on contract talks, Colts using transition tag on QB Daniel Jones remains an option

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 30: Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images) | Getty Images

With the Indianapolis Colts and pending free agent starting quarterback Daniel Jones reportedly still ‘not close’ in ongoing contract negotiations , ESPN’s Dan Graziano indicated that the transition tag could be an option for the Horseshoe before the league’s tag deadline of March 3rd at 4 PM EST:

“If the Colts can’t get a deal done with Jones by Tuesday’s tag deadline, it sounds like they’ll put the transition tag on him,” writes Graziano.

“That means Pierce could hit free agency and another team could sign Jones to an offer sheet (and the Colts wouldn’t get draft pick compensation if he were to sign elsewhere). I think the Colts push to get a long-term deal done with Jones to avoid those possibilities, but as of Saturday morning, it doesn’t sound close.”

It’s worth noting that an NFL club can only use either the franchise tag or the transition tag once per offseason, so the Colts have one tag at their disposal to potentially use between the priority internal free agent duo of Jones and lead wideout Alec Pierce, who should also have a number of interested suitors.

Via Colts.com, in contrast to the franchise tag, the transition tag operates as follows:

“Like the non-exclusive franchise tag, players can negotiate offer sheets with other teams while on the transition tag. There are two key differences: First, the salary of the transition tag is determined by the average of the top 10 salaries at a player’s position over the last five years; second, if a team declines to match an offer sheet, it does not receive compensation in return. It’s basically a right of first refusal mechanism.”

For Jones ahead of this year’s free agency, the transition tag would be a projected $37.8 million.

If I were the Colts, allowing breakout wideout Alec Pierce, who’s emerged as one of the league’s elite deep threats at 25-years-old—having led the NFL in highest average yards per reception for consecutive seasons, hit free agency without a franchise tag applied, would make me very weary of my ability to safely retain him.

I’m not saying they couldn’t in that scenario, but it could prove to be a lot more unpredictable and challenging.

The early waves of free agency can be a rabid frenzy, especially when looking at even former Indy defensive lineman’s Dayo Odeyingbo’s inflated market during last year’s initial free agency period. Odeyingbo quickly signed with the Chicago Bears on a 3-year, $48 million deal. It’s possible that the Colts could ultimately get priced out on Pierce, if they’re not overly careful here.

It makes more sense to me to try to get a deal done with Jones as soon as possible to give the Colts the ability to apply the franchise tag on Pierce at the last minute, if necessary.

If I were the Colts, I’d be more concerned about losing Pierce than Jones outright, because while Jones should command the higher average annual value on his next contract by virtue of playing the league’s highest paid position at starting quarterback, Pierce projects to have more interested suitors all together—as he’s been connected to almost every team in need of a potential wide receiver upgrade this early offseason.

The list of teams with a starting QB opening is much shorter, especially ones that are actually a fit for Jones.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...tion-tag-on-qb-daniel-jones-remains-an-option

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Position Mastery: Evaluating Offensive Linemen

Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson (56) works on blocking with fellow offensive lineman Dalton Tucker (68) on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, ahead of the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Offensive line play doesn’t show up cleanly in box scores, but it shows up on every snap. For tackles, guards, and centers, evaluation is less about highlight moments and more about consistency, leverage, and control. One bad rep can wreck a drive. One dominant rep can define a series. That’s why scouting offensive linemen requires patience and structure. You’re not looking for flash — you’re looking for repeatable movement, technique under stress, and the ability to win over and over again against elite athletes.

Unlike skill positions, where traits often pop immediately, offensive line evaluation is about accumulation. Can he anchor against power? Can he redirect speed? Does his hand placement stay disciplined in the fourth quarter? Can he process stunts and blitzes without panic? These are traits that travel from Saturdays to Sundays.

In this installment of the series, the goal is simple: strip away reputation and focus on what actually translates. What do scouts and line coaches look for? What separates a college mauler from a reliable NFL starter? And how do you evaluate tackles, guards, and centers through a lens that prioritizes technique, awareness, and physical traits that hold up against professional pass rushers?

Pardon the overlap from category to category.

---

Pass Protection

Core Traits (All Offensive Linemen)

• Wins early. Controls the rep with initial hand strike.
• Maintains leverage. Pads stay low, hips underneath.
• Anchors vs power. Doesn’t collapse the pocket.
• Balances feet and hands. No lunging or overextending.
• Finishes reps. Doesn’t quit once engaged.

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Quick kick-slide. Gains depth smoothly without crossing over.
• Matches edge speed. Mirrors bend and counters.
• Protects the corner. Rarely beaten around the arc.
• Strong inside hand. Controls long-arm rushers.
• Independent hands. Doesn’t shoot both hands at once and lose leverage.
• Resets anchor. Absorbs bull rush without walking back.
• Recovers when beaten. Can re-anchor or ride defender past QB.
• Processes twists. Passes off stunts cleanly.
• Stays upright. Doesn’t end up on the ground.
• Recognizes blitzes. Adjusts to late pressure.

Guard Focus​

• Explodes off snap. Quick first step into contact.
• Violent hand placement. Immediate inside leverage.
• Wins on an island. Doesn’t constantly need help.
• Strong base. Wide, stable anchor vs bull rush.
• Handles quickness. Recovers against interior counters.
• Maintains pocket depth. Doesn’t get forklifted back.
• Passes off stunts. Clean communication with center/tackle.
• Keeps head up. Identifies delayed blitzers.

Center Focus​

• Anchors with leverage. Lower-body strength shows up.
• Clean snap mechanics. Consistent shotgun and under center.
• Snap-to-set quickness. Doesn’t lose balance after snap.
• Controls nose tackles. Can handle true 0-tech power.
• Elite processing. Identifies fronts pre-snap.
• Calls protections. Adjusts line based on defensive look.
• Communicates constantly. Points, shifts, adjusts.
• Redirects quickly. Helps and recovers vs twists.

---

Run Blocking

Core Traits (All Offensive Linemen)​

• Plays in space. Doesn’t look lost at second level.
• Scheme versatility. Effective in both zone and gap/man concepts.
• Wins first contact. Strikes with inside leverage and control.
• Moves defenders. Creates displacement, not just stalemates.
• Leg drive on contact. Feet don’t stop after engagement.
• Maintains leverage. Pads low, hips underneath.
• Controls hands. Inside placement, no grabbing outside frame.
• Finishes blocks. Sustains and drives through whistle.
• Works double teams. Hip-to-hip chemistry, climbs on time.
• Seals edges. Can turn defenders and widen lanes.

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Sets the edge. Prevents penetration on outside runs.
• Climbs cleanly. Reaches linebackers in outside zone.
• Seals backside. Cuts off pursuit lanes.
• Athletic in space. Effective on toss, stretch, and screens.
• Down blocks with power. Collapses edge on gap schemes.
• Maintains balance on reach blocks. Doesn’t overrun defender.
• Handles wide 9s. Can stretch and hook explosive edge players.

Guard Focus​

• Displaces interior defenders. Moves 3-techs off their spot.
• Vertical movement. Creates push in power concepts.
• Executes pulls. Clean footwork on power and counter.
• Squares up in space. Doesn’t whiff at second level.
• Works combo blocks. Knows when to climb.
• Finishes downhill. Physical tone-setter inside.
• Maintains gap integrity. Doesn’t allow penetration.

Center Focus​

• Controls the nose. Can reach or drive a 0-tech.
• Quick lateral step. Essential for zone schemes.
• Clean combo timing. Works seamlessly with guards.
• Climbs under control. Doesn’t overrun linebackers.
• Angles defenders. Uses leverage over brute strength.
• Reads front movement. Adjusts mid-play to shifting gaps.
• Consistent snap + explode. No delay between snap and strike.

---

Footwork + Movement Skills​

Core Traits (All OL)​

• Efficient steps. No wasted motion out of stance.
• Balanced base. Feet stay under hips.
• Plays light. Doesn’t look heavy or stuck in mud.
• Redirect ability. Can adjust to late movement.
• Controlled stride length. Not overstriding into contact.
• Stays square. Doesn’t open hips too early.

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Clean kick-slide. Smooth, controlled depth.
• Mirrors in space. Can match elite edge speed.
• Stays patient. Doesn’t overset.
• Recovers with feet. Quick reset after counters.
• Second-level fluidity. Can move in space on screens and zone runs.

Guard Focus​

• Short-area explosion. Quick first two steps.
• Efficient pull mechanics. Tight path on power/counter.
• Compact movement. Doesn’t drift.
• Re-anchors quickly. Feet reset after contact.
• Maintains balance in traffic.

Center Focus​

• Snap-to-step fluidity. No delay after snap.
• Lateral quickness. Essential in zone schemes.
• Efficient foot replacement. Quick repositioning.
• Stays under control climbing.
• Footwork matches mental processing.

---

Play Strength & Anchor​

Core Traits (All OL)​

• Functional strength. Transfers weight into contact.
• Absorbs power. Doesn’t collapse pocket.
• Sustains blocks. Maintains leverage.
• Plays through contact. No dead legs.
• Core stability. Upper and lower body connected.

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Anchors vs bull rush. Doesn’t get walked back into the quarterback’s lap.
• Handles long-arm power. Counters length and leverage without losing balance.
• Maintains edge integrity. Keeps the pocket width intact under force.
• Doesn’t give vertical ground. Limits pocket compression from speed-to-power.

Guard Focus​

• Dominates interior power. Controls heavy 3-techs and doesn’t get forklifted.
• Creates vertical movement. Generates push in gap and power concepts.
• Holds firm in isolation. Wins true one-on-one interior reps.
• Wins leverage battles. Low pad level and strong hips decide interior fights.

Center Focus​

• Controls nose tackles. Rarely overwhelmed by size alone.
• Wins with leverage. Uses angles and technique over brute strength.
• Absorbs push without losing balance. Doesn’t fall forward or collapse.
• Strong lower half. Anchor begins from the ground up.

---

Hand Usage & Leverage​

Core Traits (All OL)​

• Inside hand placement. Controls the defender’s chest, avoids holding calls.
• Independent hands. Doesn’t shoot both hands blindly and lose balance.
• Re-fits hands. Adjusts placement when initially beaten.
• Controls the chest plate. Dictates the rep through grip and placement.
• Keeps elbows tight. Prevents defenders from swiping cleanly.
• Avoids grabbing outside the frame. Wins legally and technically.

---

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Punch timing vs speed rushers. Strikes without lunging or opening hips.
• Counters swipes and chops. Doesn’t lose immediately to hand combat.
• Strong inside hand vs long-arm. Neutralizes length advantage.
• Stays patient. Doesn’t overextend and lose balance.

---

Guard Focus​

• Violent first strike. Establishes leverage immediately at the snap.
• Locks defenders early. Gains chest control and sustains it.
• Low pad level in tight quarters. Wins leverage inside.
• Resets quickly. Doesn’t lose reps after initial displacement.

---

Center Focus​

• Quick strike after snap. Minimizes delay from snapping motion.
• Maintains leverage post-snap. Doesn’t pop upright.
• Works hands on combo blocks. Fluid and coordinated with guards.
• Recovers instantly vs movement. Handles slants and games smoothly.

---

Processing & Awareness​

Core Traits (All OL)​

• Recognizes stunts. Sees twists before they develop.
• Identifies blitz looks. Diagnoses pressure pre-snap.
• Communicates clearly. Keeps entire line on same page.
• Keeps eyes active. Doesn’t lock onto one defender.
• Adjusts mid-rep. Processes movement quickly.
• Rarely fooled twice. Learns and adapts within the game.

---

Offensive Tackle Focus​

• Passes off twists smoothly. Doesn’t create free runners.
• Keeps edge vision wide. Sees late rushers and secondary threats.
• Understands slide protections. Knows when help is present.

---

Guard Focus​

• Reads interior games quickly. Anticipates twists and delayed blitzes.
• Balances help vs independence. Knows when to pass off and when to anchor.
• Maintains gap discipline. Doesn’t chase defenders out of position.

---

Center Focus​

• Calls protections confidently. Directs traffic pre-snap.
• Identifies fronts early. Recognizes alignment changes.
• Adjusts to shifting looks. Communicates changes instantly.
• Controls line tempo. Sets tone and clarity.

---

Positional Traits (Length, Build, Frame)​

Offensive Tackle​

• Length matters. Arm length directly impacts edge survival.
• Height-to-weight balance. Carries mass without sacrificing mobility.
• Frame for growth. Can add strength without losing quickness.
• Natural weight distribution. Doesn’t look top-heavy.

---

Guard​

• Dense build. Compact and powerful frame.
• Low center of gravity. Built to win leverage battles.
• Interior mass. Absorbs collisions consistently.

---

Center​

• Compact frame. Efficient build for leverage.
• Strong lower half. Anchor starts in the hips and legs.
• Hip flexibility. Essential for lateral movement.

---

Versatility & Scheme Fit​

Core Traits​

• Zone or gap capable. Not scheme-limited.
• Multiple alignments. Experience increases roster value.
• Comfortable in shotgun and under center. System flexibility matters.
• Pull ability. Can operate in space.
• Second-level comfort. Effective climbing to linebackers.

---

Offensive Tackle​

• Switch sides capable. Left/right flexibility adds value.
• Interior emergency option. Can slide inside if needed.

---

Guard​

• Both guard spots playable. Reduces lineup rigidity.
• Center reps. Adds depth flexibility.
• Pulls both directions. Scheme adaptable.

---

Center​

• Guard experience. Adds versatility.
• Protection flexibility. Operates in multiple systems.
• Scheme-proof. Not dependent on one concept.

---

Finish & Temperament​

Core Traits​

• Plays through the whistle. Competes every snap.
• Physical demeanor. Brings edge without losing control.
• Nasty streak. Looks to dominate, not just survive.
• Competitive resilience. Doesn’t spiral after a loss.
• Durability mindset. Plays consistently through contact.

---

Offensive Tackle​

• Battles elite rushers. Doesn’t mentally fold.
• Keeps competing late. Same energy in fourth quarter.

---

Guard​

• Sets physical tone. Establishes interior identity.
• Finishes blocks. Drives through defenders.

---

Center​

• Vocal presence. Commands respect.
• Composed under chaos. Calm when protection breaks down.
• Steady anchor for QB. Emotional stability matters.

---

In the end, offensive line scouting isn’t about pancake blocks or highlight clips. It’s about consistency. It’s about whether a player can hold up snap after snap, against different rushers, in different schemes, without becoming the reason a play fails. When you watch with structure, the patterns show up quickly: clean feet, firm anchor, controlled hands, awareness under pressure, and the temperament to compete for four quarters.

This framework gives you a way to evaluate linemen with intention instead of vibes. If you chart pressures allowed, watch how they handle stunts, study their pad level in short yardage, and track how often they finish blocks, the picture becomes clear. The best ones rarely look flashy — they look stable. They don’t lose cleanly. They don’t panic. They don’t collapse.

And when draft season gets loud, remember this: quarterbacks and skill players get the headlines, but offensive linemen determine whether everything else works. If the feet, anchor, hands, and processing translate, the offense has a chance. If they don’t, nothing else matters.

---

Other Instalments:

Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Receivers

Tight Ends

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...position-mastery-evaluating-offensive-linemen

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Combine Risers & Fallers

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 28: Garrett Nussmeier of the Louisiana State Tigers, Ja'Kobi Lane of the Southern California Trojans and Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers look on during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Risers​

Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama​

Ty Simpson was the most accurate QB in drills at the Combine at all 3 levels, showing good touch and placement, especially considering the lack of experience throwing to the Wide Receivers at the Combine. He was able to layer some impressive Go Balls as well, showing off a skill not many in this class have.

.@AlabamaFTBL QB Ty Simpson's best throws from the Combine

2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/dW1saM1Kw5

— NFL (@NFL) March 1, 2026

With Fernando Mendoza opting to throw only at his Pro Day, Simpson took the opportunity of this spotlight to further cement himself as the QB2 of the class and justify a potential Round 1 selection,

Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas​

Perhaps the biggest winner of the Combine, Washington deservedly got emotional after finishing his Combine 40. The 6’1 223 lb. power back had the fastest dash time of the day for RBs, a 4.33 40 yard dash. While the official results are pending, he could be the most athletic RB since 1987 in Relative Athletic Score.

Arkansas RB Mike Washington Jr. emotional after posting a 4.33u, fastest time among running backs

(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/bnFQZujx9N

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 28, 2026

Mike Washington Jr. is a RB prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 10.00 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 1 out of 2115 RB from 1987 to 2026.

Pending bench tomorrow, then pro day. Splits projected. 10.00 Watch, last set in 2003!… pic.twitter.com/pzHVuL6RXv

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 28, 2026

Granted the lack of agility testing stands out, as on tape Washington lacks a lot of wiggle as a Running Back. But as a pure North-South runner who makes decisive decisions and hits the hole very fast, this was an excellent combine for Washington who is now entering RB2 conversations.

Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama​

Germie Bernard had a strong performance, showing off his speed (4.48 40 time), acceleration (1.52u 10 yard spilt), Explosiveness (10 foot, 5 inch broad jump), and agility (6.71 3 cone drill).

Germie Bernard is a WR prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.33 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 257 out of 3830 WR from 1987 to 2026.

Pending bench and agiliites, splits projected.https://t.co/U3jJfahGp3 pic.twitter.com/u0ewd0XIEI

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 28, 2026

A lot of players are skipping the agility score as a.way to hide a lack of wiggle and functional game speed in recent years, so Germie Bernard deserves props for participating in that especially. Germie had nothing to hide in those regards either, as the drills showed a smooth route runner. Bernard might have secured a top 50 pick for himself in this loaded WR class.

Jeff Caldwell, WR, Cincinnati​

Some players win not just in their combine performance, but in their measurements. Former Bearcat and Lindenwood transfer Jeff Caldwell did both. He measured an inch taller at the combine, getting to 6’5 height.

Cincinnati's Jeff Caldwell and NDSU's Bryce Lance are currently the only two players to earn a 99 NGS athleticism score at the 2026 Combine.

They joined DK Metcalf as the only WRs in Combine history to run a sub-4.35 40 and post a vertical of 40" or greater at 6’3” or above. pic.twitter.com/Twjs3f6IRR

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) March 1, 2026

When your testing is rivaled only by DK Metcalf at your height and weight, it’s going to get noticed. Caldwell projects as a vertical threat who can fight for contested catches similar to fellow former Bearcat Alec Pierce, albeit is a very linear athlete and doesn’t have quite the same hands as Pierce. Still Caldwell cemented himself as a Day 3 pick instead of a potential UDFA.

Sam Roush, TE, Stanford​

Sam Roush has to be the biggest riser from the Tight Ends this pre draft process. He started off with a strong showing in Mobile with effective blocking on 11 on 11s and some reliable hands when targeted in Redzone work. Scouts were buzzing about the kid out of Stanford’s ability to fight for the ball and the ball carrier, projecting as an inline blocking TE.

Sam Roush is a TE prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.99 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 3 out of 1356 TE from 1987 to 2026.

Pending agility testing, bench tomorrow, splits projected.https://t.co/B8pkSiTU8D pic.twitter.com/v29ITcx9mO

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 28, 2026

He then proceeded to put up a combine performance close to Jelani Woods’ historic performance from 2023. Tight End is one of the positions where athletic testing has the strongest correlation to becoming a top player at your position, and Roush should be considered a Top 3 TE in this class going forward as a result of this athletic display.

Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon​

Sadiq’s position as TE1 was already secure prior to his trip to Indy. But running the fastest 40 by a TE ever and finishing top 3 all time in vertical and broad jumps certainly doesn’t hurt his stock.

.@oregonfootball's Kenyon Sadiq officially holds the Combine record for the fastest 40 by a TE. @EAMaddenNFL

2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/vTZuf3Rxm8

— NFL (@NFL) February 28, 2026

Kenyon Sadiq had one of the best days ever by a TE at the Combine:

40-Yard Dash: 4.39 (best ever by a TE)
Vertical Jump: 43.5’’ (second-best ever by a TE)
Broad Jump: 11’1’’ (third-best ever by a TE)@Accenture | @oregonfootball pic.twitter.com/fxvABmsGrd

— NFL (@NFL) February 28, 2026

Sadiq is now in firm position to be not just the top TE off the board, but has a chance to go in the top 10-15 pick range.

Max Iheanachor, T, Arizona State​

A developmental Tackle, Iheanachor needed to showcase the athletic traits necessary to be a worthwhile investment in the draft. The former Sun Devil did just that to solidify his status as a top 75 player in the class.

At 321 pounds, @ASUFootball OT Max Iheanachor ran an official 4.91s 40-yard dash

Iheanachor is just the seventh OT to weigh at least 320 pounds and run a sub-5.0 forty at the combine since at least 2003 pic.twitter.com/yQsxNeTyU7

— NFL+ (@NFLPlus) March 1, 2026

Max is coming off of a breakout season with Arizona State, allowing 0 sacks and just 14 pressures. However his technique still needs refinement and he could stand to be more physical in the run game. His hand discipline needs development in particular, as he was penalized 8 times and it was primarily via holding calls.

Chase Bisontis, G, Texas A&M​

This Aggie put together a great Combine performance, potentially moving him to G2 amongst pure Guards (not counting Tackle converts inside) behind Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane.

Chase Bisontis is a OG prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.85 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 28 out of 1748 OG from 1987 to 2026.

Pending agilities and bench, times unofficial.https://t.co/gnwtZEYQef pic.twitter.com/3UdEj4acrv

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) March 1, 2026

Another 3 cone standout, Bisontis was able to further showcase his agility in drills, helping him stand out and become a priority for teams looking run zone or needing a pulling guard.

Logan Jones, C, Iowa​

The best Center performance of the Combine was Logan Jones, who needed to wow in testing considering his below average size and weight. He proved that he was a highly athletic Center, helping solidify his position among more finesse centers.

Logan Jones is a OC prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.56 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 31 out of 679 OC from 1987 to 2026.

Pending agilities and bench, times unofficial.https://t.co/Ui8EfUpuKk pic.twitter.com/7FFQgkI9yQ

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) March 1, 2026

His size shouldn’t be too much of a concern with those testing numbers, as he still falls in between Tyler Linderbaum (6 pounds under) and Jason Kelce (4 pounds over) in playing weight while also having similar elite athleticism.

Malachi Lawrence, DE, UCF​

Perhaps the biggest Riser of the pre-draftt process in the Edge class, Malachi Lawrence started off with a dominant performance at the Shrine Bowl and had an impressive Combine workout for teams, which could cement him as a Day 2 pick.

Malachi Lawrence is a DE prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.90 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 22 out of 2046 DE from 1987 to 2026.

Splits projected, all times unofficial, agilities left to run, bench tomorrow.https://t.co/FkEfUpGX2b pic.twitter.com/g3ShOCKYx5

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 26, 2026

While his arms might not have been as long as previously reported (35”), he more than made up for it with his dash, 10 yard split, and jumps all being elite.

Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State​

Another All Star Game stud, Dani Dennis-Sutton dominated the Senior Bowl Tackles for the first two days of practice. He was on his way to another strong showing on Day 3 until he had a scary hit and had to leave the field. Some questioned if he just got the wind knocked out of him or if it was a more serious injury, which put some doubt on how his Combine performance and level of participation would be.

Dani Dennis-Sutton is a DE prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.93 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 15 out of 2046 DE from 1987 to 2026.

Splits projected, all times unofficial, agilities left to run.https://t.co/OsZoDeTWUn pic.twitter.com/AHbnETNiI7

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 26, 2026

Being able to run the full gauntlet of drills and testing was already a positive sign to alleviate any concerns with his injury from last month. But add on that he has a case as the most size adjusted fast and explosive Edge rusher in the class after his performance on his jumps and dash, and it’s no wonder his stock is rising.

Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma​

Gracen Halton also had a promising Shrine Bowl performance, showing off a devastating first step and excellent penetration skills as a 3 Technique Defensive Tackle.

Defensive tackles Kaleb Proctor (20.95 mph) and Gracen Halton (20.92 mph) recorded two of the five fastest 40-yard dash top speeds among DTs over the last four years.

The three fastest DTs by top speed (Kancey, Stills, Fiske) have all started over 20 games in the NFL. pic.twitter.com/1M5kjRkEBP

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) February 26, 2026

Combine his speed with a 36.5” vertical jump at 293 lbs. and it’s easy to see the appeal for this Sooner making an impact at the NFL level. Expect him to go Day 2.

Demonte Capehart, DT, Clemson​

Perhaps the most freaky athlete among interior Defensive lineman of the 2026 Draft class, Capehart had a massive day in Indy. The Clemson Tiger showed why he should be considered a dangerous weapon in the hands of the right Defensive Coordinator.

Clemson DT DeMonte Capehart (6-5, 313) goes beyond a 99.7th% RAS, 18 starts show a crushing bull rush, heavy-handed two-gapper. Immovable @ snap run stopper that stacks/sheds physically

We got to start chatting him more here.

@MathBomb https://t.co/POtdv9iNsv pic.twitter.com/WRtB4hRyUS

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) February 26, 2026

Whether it is as a gap rushing 3 Technique or a Double Team absorbing 1 Technique, Capehart’s versatility paired with elite athletic testing should be very appealing to a Day 2 team.

Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State​

It was known that Sonny Styles was a sensational athlete heading into the Combine. But the former Safety can now be confirmed as one of the freakiest freaks in a league filled with premier athletes.

Sonny Styles isn't your average linebacker

2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/Pa7hKPL1zZ

— NFL (@NFL) February 27, 2026

There wasn’t much room for him to rise as a consensus Top 10 pick heading into the week. But now there is a legitimate case for him to be the first Defender off the board, even over Edge Rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and teammate Arvell Reese Jr. (who can also be an off ball LB too). While it probably won’t happen due to positional value, the scarcity of finding true elite LBs in the NFL who can be dominant in coverage and reliable tacklers could make the case for Styles to go over them.

Tacario Davis, CB, Washington​

Tacario Davis’ final collegiate season didn’t go to plan with rib, hamstring, and knee injuries hurting his availability and performance for the Huskies. The Hamstring in particular was really concerning as a severe one that ended his season, and could have been something that limited his Combine performance.

Tacario Davis is a CB prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.76 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 67 out of 2779 CB from 1987 to 2026.

Pending agilities and bench, splits projected.https://t.co/aiVaGRD8Z5 pic.twitter.com/Qa3GFEvR6a

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 27, 2026

Instead Tacario Davis had one of the most athletic performances in testing this year for the Corners, showing off his speed and explosiveness despite his 6’4 and 194 lb. frame. Teams looking for long outside Corners with athleticism to bail out from press man/cover 3 should love Davis.

Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon​

The former Purdue Boilermaker and Westfield native felt right at home in Indiana and it showed on the field. Probably the most impressive DB of the Combine, Thieneman paired elite tier athletic testing with a sensational drill work.

Extremely smooth from Dillon Thieneman. Checked every box today.

pic.twitter.com/UreH1BrO76

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 27, 2026

Is Dillon Thieneman the most athletic white guy ever? pic.twitter.com/wP2CEzu79u

— Mike Renner (@mikerenner_) February 28, 2026

Being able to show off a smooth backpedal, strong range, and reliable hands in catching everything thrown to him, the versatile S prospect made his case to not just be the Safety2 of the class, but could compete with Caleb Downs for the top spot in the class. Not only should he go in the top 18 of the Draft, but there is a decent chance that he is drafted in the top 10.

Fallers​

Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt​

Diego Pavia has done nearly everything in his power to become an Undrafted Free Agent over the last 3 months. From creating questions of his maturity after his infamous reaction to not winning the Heisman, to deflecting questions with a joke regarding said maturity and saying he is being mentored by Johnny Manziel, to then being measured at 5’9.875” tall. His biggest opportunity for self reflection and clear growth to the media prior to the draft squandered for a few chuckles is not ideal for a draft stock.

QB Diego Pavia on his maturity “Coach pressed that your frontal lobe isn’t fully developed til 25. I just turned 24 so I’ve got 365 days”

Agent needsafter that buffoonery

Reminds me Dad would say “Son, once you’re 12, you aren’t cute anymore”
Nice way to say don’t be smartass https://t.co/glDEg3HZyS pic.twitter.com/IsVFf6hO4O

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) February 27, 2026

Pavia did a good job on his ball placement in drills, but the Vanderbilt QB has consistently shown immaturity and brashness both in front of the camera and away from it. His list of teams interested in him is already reduced by his height alone not meeting thresholds for most NFL teams at QB, but he has not done himself any favors with his attitude and personality in keeping that number from dropping further. Perhaps someone takes a chance on him on Day 3, but NFL teams tend to not like QB2s/3s Coming to the NFL with such a demeanor.

Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska​

Johnson was firmly in the mix for the RB2 of the 2026 Draft behind Love heading into the combine, but now that feels less plausible. Running Backs are one of the high correlation between athletic testing and NFL production positions, and Emmett Johnson was unable to have a single elite test result.

Emmett Johnson is a RB prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 5.85 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 879 out of 2115 RB from 1987 to 2026.

Pending bench tomorrow, then pro day. Splits projected.https://t.co/KiSKgfDhN5 pic.twitter.com/SP82hMX3xp

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 28, 2026

Price out of Notre Dame and Coleman out of TCU should be considered ahead of him, and Mike Washington Jr.’s performance gave him a case as well to be ahead of Johnson for RB4 of the class. While his tape is highly polished, the lack of explosive big play long speed stands out from there and a 4.56 40 yard dash does little to assuage this concern.

Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona​

It had been a while since scouts had seen Tyson play at top WR prospect level compared to his contemporaries. Missing time in the middle of the 2025 season with soft tissue injuries once again and struggling to make an impact in the only 2 games back since certainly creates red flags and questions.

We counting these with the butt off the bench???

Must be the same dude doing the arm length measurements… https://t.co/QGrjV4NYb1

— Carter Donnick (@CDonnick1) March 1, 2026

Tyson was unable to do drills or most athletic testing, with the sole exception being bench press where he put up 26 (albeit with some questionable form), 2nd most for a WR ever behind only DK Metcalf. While that is highly impressive, the medical red flags could have been alleviated somewhat with a strong and active showing in Indianapolis. He isn’t the consensus WR1 due in large part to this risk, and this deep class of WRs is chomping on the bit to pass him. The talent is clear, but the risk is too, making his draft stock potentially slipping outside of the top 20-25.

Kadyn Proctor, T, Alabama​

A polarizing prospect with a large range of draft stock from analyst to analyst, Kadyn Proctor had an interesting combine. On the one hand he was able to display his explosiveness and strength consistently, which are hallmarks of his profile on tape.

Kadyn Proctor reached 32.5 inches on his vertical jump, 2 more than any other player weighing 350+ pounds at the combine since at least 2003 pic.twitter.com/tCeVBpN0Wc

— NFL+ (@NFLPlus) March 1, 2026

On the other hand, his footwork in drills was sloppy and he struggled to keep his balance and move agilely. He could be dominant in gap schemes that won’t ask him to pull or get out in space in the run, but the issues of his could limit him to just those teams. With the NFL becoming more balanced between zone and gap concepts in recent years, that list isn’t long of gap heavy teams.

Dametrius Crownover, T, Texas A&M​

Another large Tackle that some teams will fall in love with, Crownover is certainly a 1st player off the bus kind of guy at 6’7 and 319 lbs. with freakishly long arms. His 5.15 40 yard dash is also solid for his stature.

However his 10 yard split was really slow and he was the biggest struggler in drills among the OL. He was struggling to move laterally a lot and needed to often use his arms to stabilize himself. He won’t have the luxury of being able to have his arms free for balancing in the NFL and there is a clear issue against speed for him.

LT Overton, DL, Alabama​

One of the hallmarks of LT Overton’s profile is his inside/outside versatility, but that comes with the double edged sword of being considered a tweener as a large DE/small 3T DT. After his combine performance perhaps its best if he works inside full time.

Alabama DL LT Overton ran a 4.91u on his first 40-yard dash.

He ran a 4.87u on his second 40-yard dash.

As of right now, Overton recorded the third-slowest 40-yard dash among the 19 edge rushers that ran at the NFL Scouting Combine.

His numbers have yet to become official at… pic.twitter.com/Nk6huRugLt

— Crimson Coverage (@CrimsonCoverage) February 26, 2026

LT frankly doesn’t have the explosiveness off the Edge that teams are looking for as a full time edge rusher and will struggle to beat a Tackle off the line. He’d be much better suited bulking up to become a full time DT in the NFL. But the lack of experience being in this role full time means that his stock is not going to rise from this Combine.

R Mason Thomas, DE, Oklahoma​

R Mason Thomas was not done any favors for his stock in his trip to Indy. From being measured an inch shorter and 10 lbs. lighter to then only running the 40 yard dash where he went 4.67 and a 1.63 10 yard split is not great for an undersized DE.

@BuffCommander & @RandallSlifer Should I be scared off by R Mason Thomas’ combine testing and measurables?

Conversely, you think Josh Josephs starts moving up boards because of his? pic.twitter.com/zTBYlkMr00

— Nick from NY #BillsMafia (@TheBillsPod) February 28, 2026

Heading into the week he was looking like a potential top 30-40 pick in the draft with his explosive play and high energy dominating for the Sooners. But the poor showing from him at the Combine could have him fall down a bit. He will need to test much better at his pro day to keep him stock up.

Lee Hunter, NT, Texas A&M​

Lee Hunter was in a competition with Caleb Banks and Peter Woods as the top 3 DTs of the Draft, but he had a rough showing at the Combine and he could end up being a Round 2 player. The lack of explosion and agility wasn’t too much of a surprise, but he showed a clear gap in the speed and first step between him and other top prospects at DT so his stock will take a bit of a hit.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/road-to-the-draft/121895/combine-risers-fallers

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts apply transition tag to QB Daniel Jones—while continuing to negotiate with both WR Alec Pierce and him

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 23: Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts warms up before the beginning of the third quarter during the NFL 2025 game between Indianapolis Colts and Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Kansas City, United States. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to multiple league sources, the Indianapolis Colts are applying the transition tag, worth $37.83M dollars for the 2026 season, to pending free agent starting quarterback Daniel Jones, which gives the Horseshoe the ability to match any offer sheet Jones signs during the upcoming free agency period:

Another tag: The Colts are placing the transition tag on QB Daniel Jones, per sources. The transition tag is $37.833M, more than $6M cheaper than the QB franchise tag, but gives Jones the opportunity to sign an offer sheet with another team that Indianapolis would then have the… pic.twitter.com/eLmqLB5ZgH

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2026

Before then, Indianapolis will continue to negotiate with Jones in the hopes of reaching a new multi-year deal.

Of course, with Jones occupying the Colts’ one available offseason tag, it means that lead wideout Alec Pierce, Indy’s other priority free agent, is set to become an unrestricted free agent—pending a new contract extension before noon on Monday.

Both sides reportedly continue to actively engage in negotiations. However, it’s no longer a slam dunk that Pierce will return than it otherwise would’ve been, had Indianapolis placed the franchise tag on him—instead of using the transition tag on Jones.

The Colts locking up Jones could go a long way toward Pierce inking a new deal with Indianapolis sooner rather than later, as the Horseshoe’s continued uncertainty at quarterback, with other teams still having the ability to poach Jones, reportedly is still weighing meaningfully on Pierce’s ongoing Colts’ contract talks.

While the NFL’s starting quarterback position is unquestionably the league’s most important position, it’s still a little surprising to me that this is the route that the Colts ultimately chose—especially with Jones still recovering from a season-ending torn Achilles injury suffered late during Week 14 of last season.

It’s not that Jones couldn’t be coveted elsewhere, as his former team, the Minnesota Vikings, are already a reported dark horse lurking in the shadows. It’s just that despite presumably commanding a lower annual average value on his next contract, Pierce’s upcoming free agent market—should he actually hit the open market, is expected to be more robust and prevalent, with a lot more interested external suitors.

Similarly to former Colts free agent defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo last free agency period, it only takes one illogical team to make a surprisingly high offer and potentially price out Indianapolis—except Pierce is a better player, and should command even more inflated free agency dollars during the period’s first frenzied wave.

The Colts have to continue to work so that they can lock up Pierce long-term before free agency formally begins.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...to-negotiate-with-both-him-and-wr-alec-pierce

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts reportedly made ‘aggressive move’ to re-sign Alec Pierce, but tag-less, now poised to ‘entertain other offers’

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 04: Head coach Shane Steichen of the Indianapolis Colts walks with Alec Pierce #14 after Pierce was ejected from the game for making contact with a ref during the third quarter of the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, while the Indianapolis Colts made an ‘aggressive move’ to re-sign Alec Pierce before Tuesday’s late afternoon league tag deadline, all signs were already pointing to the team’s lead wideout testing the free agent waters next mid-week—short of the Horseshoe applying the franchise tag (which the transition tag went to free agent quarterback and Pierce’s passing teammate Daniel Jones instead):

“There’s incentive for the Colts is to do a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, sooner rather than later,” said Rapoport. “Right up against it with the salary cap. They can restructure some guys. They can figure this out. But if they do a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, their cap situation gets a lot easier and that might be pretty important because as you mentioned, Alec Pierce is going to be a free agent.”

“I know the Colts made an aggressive move to try to sign him before the franchise tag deadline. That was never going to happen. Not going to sign, unless he knew for sure who his quarterback was going to be.”

“Now he knows it’s Daniel Jones, but timing is really not on the Colts side here.”

“Today’s Tuesday. Right? So in like five days, or four days, whatever the math may be, the tampering window begins. Players never get this close to free agency and at least don’t entertain offers. It’s hard to imagine he does any deal until at least the end of the week before he’s going to find out what’s out there.”

“Besides George Pickens, who is a franchise tag member of the Dallas Cowboys, this is one of the top free agents regardless of positions. Certainly the top wide receiver. He’s going to get a huge deal, and the Colts, are not [just] competing with themselves, but the entire rest of the NFL.”

Of course, this is shaping up to be what a lot of Colts fans ultimately feared.

Without a franchise tag applied to him, Pierce after a breakout 2026 campaign, in which he led the league in average yards per catch for a consecutive year, hitting the open market as an unrestricted free agent—and essentially free to sign anywhere without significant suitor compensation deterring other teams from offering or even providing the Colts the opportunity to match any offer sheet.

At 25-years-old and still improving as an overall route runner, Pierce caught 47 receptions for 1,003 total receiving yards and 6 touchdowns receptions during 14 starts, but it’s his unique skill-set of separating vertically downfield, high-pointing the football, maintaining body control, and making highly athletic/acrobatic catches through contact that make him one of the league’s truly elite deep threats.

The first waves of free agency can be a frenzy and very unpredictable.

Colts fans saw that firsthand last season when rotational defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo inked a 3-year, $48 million deal with the Chicago Bears (featuring $32M guaranteed during the first waves). Pierce is a better player than Odeyingbo was at that stage of their respective careers, and all it takes is one illogical team to make a shocking offer to potentially out-price the Colts from a salary cap standpoint.

As Rapoport notes, with Pickens a recipient of the franchise tag, Pierce now becomes the top free agent wideout.

He had already been speculated as an offseason target for nearly every team potentially in need of a wide receiver upgrade this early offseason, particularly those with bigger and stronger armed quarterbacks.

If push comes to shove, especially if the Colts can’t lock in Jones to a multi-year contract extension, can anyone reasonably blame Pierce, if the money is comparable, that he gets to catch passes from potentially a Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, etc. who are all better quarterbacks and bigger armed for downfield shots?

This is why a lot of Colts fans were clamoring for Pierce to receive the franchise tag, instead of Jones being the recipient of the transition tag. While Jones’ average annual value of his contract will assuredly be higher, Pierce projects to have a lot more interested suitors, as there’s more teams with wide receiver holes than those handful that are in need of a starting quarterback rehabbing from a late season torn Achilles that seem to fit with Jones.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-outside-of-tag-now-poised-to-hit-free-agency