Following the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts’ roster is now largely set. However, that doesn’t mean that a free agent addition — or two — can’t be made.
With the draft behind us, any free agent additions will no longer impact the 2027 compensatory pick formula. The Colts also still have ample salary cap space — not that an addition at this time of the offseason will break the bank — with $26.62 million available, according to Over the Cap.
So if GM Chris Ballard does still want to tweak his roster, what positions should be on his radar? There are two in particular that stand out.
Colts positions of need after NFL draft: Linebacker
The state of the linebacker room is in much better shape following the draft. CJ Allen can start at MIKE linebacker, while Bryce Boettcher and Akeem Davis-Gaither could compete for the WILL linebacker role.
That said, there is still quite a bit of inexperience at this position as we work our way down the depth chart. In adding a veteran to the mix, the goal wouldn’t be for that player to start over any of the players just mentioned, but rather to boost the level of competition at the middle and back end portions of the depth chart, and therefore raising the floor of this unit.
Colts positions of need after NFL draft: Running back
Here, the Colts have DJ Giddens and Seth McGowan competing for the backup running back role. However, when it comes to NFL experience, both are short on that. A veteran presence would add to the competition and potentially provide more stability in pass protection and on special teams — two areas where backup running backs have to contribute but often come with learning curves for young players.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2 positions Colts could add to in free agency after 2026 NFL draft
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
