Between now and training camp, we will be going through the Indianapolis Colts’ full 90-man roster, previewing each player.
Up next is defensive end Mitchell Melton, who wears No. 54.
Profile
Mitchell Melton’s tenure with the Colts
The Colts signed Mitchell following the 2026 NFL draft as an undrafted free agent.
What to know about Mitchell Melton
Mitchell played 213 defensive snaps between the 2023 and 2024 seasons while at Ohio State. This past year, he transferred to Virginia, where he had a breakout season, logging 53 quarterback pressures, ranking tied for 15th among his position group in that category. Melton would also rank 33rd in PFF’s run defense grade.
Looking ahead to 2026 for Mitchell Melton
More likely than not, Melton is a practice squad candidate. While the Colts ‘defensive end position has its unknowns, this is a crowded room as well, with a number of players that Melton would have to jump in order to make the 53-man roster.
Laiatu Latu will lead the way, while Arden Key and Jaylahn Tuimoloau will likely compete for the starting role opposite of him. The Colts also signed Micheal Clemons in free agency and drafted Caden Curry and George Gumbs Jr.
That already is six players, which is about the max amount that we will see teams keep on the 53-man roster at defensive end. Many will roster only five.
If you’d like to hold out hope that Melton can make a roster push, the Colts can get out of Clemons’ deal with a relatively low dead cap hit, while later Day 3 picks aren’t always roster locks.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts roster preview: What Mitchell Melton adds to pass rush unit
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
