Grading the Colts’ pick: The team replaces Nick Cross with LSU’s ball-hawking safety AJ Haulcy in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft
Grading the Indianapolis Colts decision to select LSU ball-hawking safety AJ Haulcy in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, following their selection of Georgia linebacker CJ Allen in the second round.
The Indianapolis Colts needed a big day two of the 2026 NFL Draft after not having a first-round pick. They kicked it off, landing Georgia linebacker C.J. Allen in the second round. And followed it up with another pick on the defensive side of the ball, selecting LSU safety A.J. Haulcy.
Two high-performing SEC playmakers are bringing their talents to Indianapolis. The team’s third-round pick, Haulcy, brings a proven track record as a ball hawk that should be a valuable addition to Lou Anarumo’s defense.
Colts add a safety with proven ball skills who also brings the boom in the run game
The Colts lost Nick Cross this offseason in free agency, which created a hole at safety. The addition of AJ Haulcy fills that void, but not in the way some may have expected. Colts general manager Chris Ballard mentioned after day two that they don’t view Haulcy as strictly a strong safety. The team’s plan seems to be to flip Cam Bynum and Haulcy throughout game days to create some creative opportunities on the back end.
One reason for this is Haulcy’s proven ball skills. He had eight interceptions and 12 pass deflections over the last two years. He led LSU with three interceptions in 2025 and led Houston and the Big 12 with five interceptions in 2025. Haulcy reminds you a bit of a wide receiver when you watch him move and attack the football. His showing in the gauntlet at the scouting combine only added to that.
What are the Colts getting in AJ Haulcy?
To learn more about AJ Haulcy’s game, here is a breakdown by A to Z Sports NFL Draft analyst Adam Holt:
Haulcy played at a high level at multiple power programs. Ball-hawk is the perfect descriptor, as he totaled 10 interceptions during his college career. He reads the quarterback’s eyes incredibly well and understands zone concepts at the top of this safety class.
Haulcy can start quickly and effectively in the pros. Thicker frame for a defensive back and will take on contact. Haulcy’s big knock is that his speed and athleticism leave him susceptible to being beaten over the top at times
A to Z Sports NFL draft analyst
Adam Holt
Grading the Colts’ selection of AJ Haulcy
Haulcy projects as a seamless fit to start on day one at safety for the Colts. In round three, that’s a big win, especially with multiple starting roles on defense up for grabs. Some looked at Haulcy as a top-three safety in this class, and his making it to the third round was not the expectation.
The duo of Bynum and Haulcy has the potential to be a special one for years to come. This was one of the best picks of the entire third round and wrapped up an impressive showing on day two of the draft for the Colts overall. This gets an A from me, and I’m excited to see Haulcy make an immediate impact in Anarumo’s defense.
Grade: A
See who you can add to the Colts 2026 NFL Draft haul using A to Z Sports’ mock draft simulator.
