2026 NFL Team Draft Page

2025 Draft Grade: B+

In the lead up to the Draft, it seemed highly unlikely that Tyler Warren would fall to the Colts' pick at #14. I imagine it didn't take long for the team to turn in their card with Warren still available. Tight End is never a sexy pick, but Warren is so much more. The offense has been crying out for a productive TE for years and finding a talented starter was the main requirement of the offseason.

In RD2, Indy addressed the need to add pass-rushing talent on defense. Ohio State's J.T. Tuimoloau is a tough, durable, and experienced defender who, even though he was the seventh EDGE selected, could be one of the best. Tuimoloau has the versatility to play inside and outside, which is much needed with Kwity Paye a free agent in 2026.

The focus turned to adding depth on offense in the early part of Day-3. OT, Jalen Travis, has the potential to see plenty of playing time in the future, but shouldn't be relied on for too many snaps in 2025. RB, D.J. Giddens, will be fighting Khalil Herbert for carries behind Jonathan Taylor. Riley Leonard is a fun pick; he'll be learning how to play QB properly whilst watching the Richardson/Jones battle play out.

Alabama's Tim Smith was a nice pick up in RD6; he'll be added to the DT rotation and could be seen as a long-term replacement for Grover Stewart. Hunter Wohler is an interesting addition who will likely play more as a linebacker than a safety. Wohler should, if nothing else, be very useful on special teams.

Looking ahead - 2026 Draft

Let's get this out of the way; the Colts may need to draft a QB in 2026. Let's hope not, but it becomes the biggest need if Richardson or Jones don't make the job their own. RT Braden Smith, is a free agent in 2026, and is unlikely to be retained. It's very possible that Indy will need to fill three starting roles along the o-line next year, but Tanor Bortolini and Matt Goncalves could nail down the OC, and RG spots respectively. The secondary always seems to be a need in Indianapolis, so CB or Safety will also be high on the list.

- David Payne, DraftTek Senior Analyst