Colts Draft Grades Revealed: Which 2026 Picks Shocked Scouts and Who Fell Flat?

The Indianapolis Colts completed their 8-player rookie class this past extended weekend for the 2026 NFL Draft—and the Horseshoe faithful have weighed in.

51% of Colts fans gave Indianapolis a “B” grade, which seems pretty favorable given that their favorite team didn’t have a first round pick this year. If given the option, I would probably ‘rounded up’ to a B+ myself.

Still, the Colts were arguably able to get a projected borderline first round/early second round pick linebacker prospect when Indianapolis selected Georgia linebacker CJ Allen with the 53rd overall pick. Allen projects as an immediate ‘plug-and-play’ starter at linebacker for Indy to replenish what was an aged and depleted position.

He’s provides sideline-t0-sideline playmaking ability, and should be an upgrade from a speed and athleticism standpoint, while also being highly regarded for his overall leadership while with the Bulldogs.

However, the Colts didn’t stop there, as Indianapolis selected a consecutive First-Team All-SEC defensive player just a round later, as the Horseshoe selected LSU safety A.J. Haulcy with the 78th overall pick. Like Allen, Haulcy projects to be an immediate starter for Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s retooled defense. He has the ability to play in the box as a tone setting enforcer, while also being a ballhawk in coverage.

The Colts didn’t stop the SEC pick streak, as Indianapolis would then select Kentucky offensive guard in Round 4 (Pick #113), Jalen Farmer, who should compete for their starting right guard job this training camp and preseason. Indianapolis was at least another key offensive lineman or swing-tackle short entering the 2026 campaign, because of the need for more depth in case of o-lineman injuries or underperformance.

Otherwise, the Colts replenished their depth at other positions where backup reinforcements were needed. However, Indy’s other 4th round pick, Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher (and former MLB draft pick as a two-sport athlete), could make an immediate impact with the Colts first-team defense as a subpackage coverage linebacker of sorts on obvious passing downs.

Indianapolis also selected Florida defensive end George Gumbs Jr. (Pick #156), Ohio State defensive end Caden Curry (Pick #214), Kentucky running back Seth McGowan (Pick #237), and Oklahoma wide receiver Deion Burks (Pick #254) among their remaining 2026 draft picks to complete ’Day 3.‘