For the most part, draft analysts are quite bullish about the Indianapolis Colts’ 2026 NFL draft class. However, CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards decided to go in a different direction, highlighting the one “questionable” pick made by each team.
So who did Edwards pick for the Colts?
Florida defensive end George Gumbs Jr., whom the Colts picked in the fifth round.
“The Colts accomplished a lot without a first-round pick,” Edwards wrote. “They found good players at positions of need, such as safety, guard and linebacker. There is a functional role and clear vision for each of the players added on Day 3, even Gumbs, but it was earlier than expected.”
The Colts picked Gumbs at 156th overall, while on the consensus board, he was the 235th-ranked prospect. That said, if a team’s “questionable” selection is that they took a pass rusher with upside too early on Day 3, that is further proof as to how strong the Colts’ draft class was.
Over 136 pass rush snaps last season, Gumbs generated 13 pressures and three sacks. The year prior, he logged 26 pressures and five sacks across 188 pass rush snaps. He’s taken advantage of his opportunities and been a willing run defender.
Gumbs began his career at Northern Illinois as a wide receiver, so he is still relatively new to being a pass rusher, and with that, there is development that will be needed.
However, in his short time playing the position, Gumbs has established a strong foundation for himself, giving the Colts plenty to work with as they attempt to unlock his untapped potential.
“We think this kid’s got some upside,” Chris Ballard said. “He’s a tremendous athlete. Thinking helps us on teams. Think we can develop him kind of as an outside backer rusher.”
With refinement still needed, Gumbs’ early contributions may come more so on special teams.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Analyst selects Colts most ‘questionable’ pick in 2026 NFL draft
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
