ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. put together six early predictions for the 2026 NFL draft. Not surprisingly, when discussing the top quarterbacks, the Indianapolis Colts were among the teams that were mentioned in the conversation.
This is expected to be a loaded quarterback draft class, and Kiper’s first prediction reflected that. Kiper predicts that six quarterbacks will be taken in the first round.
That group of players includes LaNorris Sellers, Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik, Garrett Nussmeier, Same Leavitt, Fernando Mendoza, and Nico Iamaleava.
This, of course, is when the Colts entered the conversation.
“Perhaps the Indianapolis Colts are in play?” Wrote Kiper. “The New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Cleveland Browns have all been linked to QB changes next offseason, too.”
Along with the Colts, Jets, Saints, and Browns, Kiper also mentions the Steelers and Rams as potential quarterback-needy teams as well.
The plan is for Daniel Jones not only to start Week 1 for the Colts but to be the starter for the entire season, which creates a few different potential outcomes for the Colts when it comes to their quarterback situation.
In one scenario, Jones takes the Colts to the playoffs for the first time since 2020 and gets a new deal next offseason. In that instance, the chances of the Colts taking a first-round quarterback are reduced.
Another scenario is that the Colts again miss the playoffs, at which point an overhaul will be coming, and not just at quarterback, but at GM and head coach as well. Whoever is leading the new regime will then likely be looking for an early-round quarterback.
As far as what Anthony Richardson’s long-term outlook is with the team, well, that path forward has become quite murky. While GM Chris Ballard remains committed to Richardson’s development, as I detailed recently, there aren’t many likely outcomes out there that include Richardson being the guy in 2026 and beyond.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts mentioned among quarterback-needy teams in 2026 NFL draft
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
