Underrated positions the Indianapolis Colts could target earlier in the 2026 NFL Draft than most people realize
Three position groups that are underrated roster needs for the Indianapolis Colts that could shock some people by becoming early selections in the team’s 2026 NFL Draft class.
The 2026 NFL Draft is less than two weeks away from kicking off. And even though the Indianapolis Colts don’t own a first-round pick, they will have the chance to add impactful players.
There is a long list of positions that just about everyone views as a need for the Colts. Some that are often mentioned are edge rusher, linebacker, safety, and wide receiver. The team has more needs than just that, though, that deserve consideration. A few position groups are being underrated when it comes to the Colts’ chances to target fairly early in the draft. Here are the three I think are the most undervalued.
Running back
Jonathan Taylor is the Colts’ lead running back; there’s no debating that. Behind him on the depth chart, though, is pretty bleak. His current backup is DJ Giddens, who is entering his second season in the NFL. There was a lot of hope he would carve out a role as a rookie, but he ended up getting passed over for multiple others as the season went on.
This included him being a healthy scratch in several games. The Colts could use a backup who is a strong pass blocker and a threat in the passing game. Giddens could still take a step forward as a player, but he wasn’t reliable in either area last season. The team has to add competition for him ahead of training camp, and I wouldn’t rule out the team drafting a running back as early as the fourth round.
Defensive tackle
Defensive tackle is one of the only positions on the Colts roster with solid depth. The team’s starters are in place with DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. They also like the depth on their roster with Adetomiwa Adebawore and Colby Wooden.
Buckner’s neck injury is going to be something the team has to monitor all offseason long, though, and likely into the season. The expectation should be that he isn’t able to play a full season next year, and if he does, that’s a pleasant surprise.
As a result, I don’t think defensive tackle is truly off the table for the Colts in the draft. The team could consider it as soon as round three, which would shock a lot of people.
Offensive line
Last up is the offensive line, which I think is the most underrated need on the Colts’ roster. Partly because they have depth needs at all three positions: tackle, guard, and center.
At tackle, they could look to add competition for Jalen Travis to replace Braden Smith at right tackle. If they elect to go that route, using a day-two pick on a tackle would make a lot of sense.
The interior of their line is also thin, even though they have their starters in place. The Colts haven’t been shy to draft key depth offensive linemen earlier than expected in the past. In fact, the Colts drafted current starters Matt Goncalves and Tanor Bortolini in the third and fourth rounds. The team did not select either player to start on day one.
