Pete Prisco of CBS Sports has put together his annual list of the top 100 players entering the 2026 NFL season, and included were three members of the Indianapolis Colts, all of whom were ranked in the top 50.
Let’s take a closer look.
32. RB Jonathan Taylor
Taylor is a three-time Pro Bowler and made one All-Pro team. He played in 13 games in 2024 and all 17 games last season. rushing for 1,431 yards and 1,585 yards, respectively, as one of the more productive backs in football each year.
His impact, however, goes beyond the stat sheet. When the Colts can lean on Taylor, that keeps the offense ahead of the sticks and out of predictable passing situations. This, in turn, opens up the playbook for Steichen and the passing game for Jones. When Taylor is rolling, everyone benefits.
What Prisco said: “He finished third in the league in rushing with 1,585 yards and a 4.9 average. He scored 20 touchdowns, including 18 on the ground. He remains one of the game’s best runners.”
38. LG Quenton Nelson
About to enter his ninth NFL season, Nelson continues to play at an extremely high level. Among all guards this season, Nelson ranked fourth in Pro Football Focus’ pass-blocking efficiency and fourth in run-blocking grade. He is an eight-time Pro Bowler and has made six All-Pro teams in his career.
What Prisco said: “He returned to star form in 2025 after a few seasons when his play wasn’t quite what it was early in his career. He was good in both pass protection and the run game.”
48. CB Sauce Gardner
A calf injury limited Gardner to only four games in a Colts uniform, but he was able to showcase the impact that he can have. In those games, Gardner allowed a completion rate of 54%, giving up just 7.3 yards per catch, with three pass breakups.
Gardner’s presence affords Lou Anarumo more flexibility as he builds out game plans and allows him to call games more aggressively as well.
What Prisco said: “His play wasn’t elite last season, but the tools are still there. For what the Colts gave up to get him — two first-round picks — he better be elite this year.”
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 3 Colts land in analyst’s top 100 NFL player rankings for 2026 season
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
