We now know who makes up the Indianapolis Colts’ 2026 NFL draft class, but where do each of these players fit on this year’s roster?
While a lot can change between now and Week 1, depending on how training camp unfolds, let’s project what roles each of these eight rookies could fill.
LB CJ Allen
Allen should be a Day 1 starter for the Colts, specifically taking over the MIKE linebacker duties with Zaire Franklin now in Green Bay.
S AJ Haulcy
Haulcy will have the opportunity to compete for the starting role next to Cam Bynum. His versatility makes him a good fit for Lou Anaurmo’s disguise-heavy defense, and he brings impressive ball skills to the secondary as well.
OL Jalen Farmer
The Colts believe Farmer can play both guard and tackle positions. At a minimum, he will provide depth at both positions, but he could also compete for playing time with either Matt Goncalves or Jalen Travis.
During Chris Ballard’s pre-draft press conference, he said, “We’re going to bet on some development,” referencing Goncalves and Travis, which may tell us that neither is a lock to be a starter.
LB Bryce Boettcher
Boettcher bolsters the depth and adds competition. With Allen at the MIKE, he should compete for the WILL linebacker role with Akeem Davis-Gaither.
DE George Gumbs Jr.
Still relatively new to the position — Gumbs’ college career began as a wide receiver at Northern Illinois — the Colts believe Gumbs has a solid foundation, but continued development is needed. He’ll compete for rotational snaps, but could see most of his playing time come on special teams.
DE Caden Curry
Presumably, four spots in the defensive end rotation are already accounted for between Laiatu Latu, JT Tuimoloau, Arden Key, and Micheal Clemons. That leaves just a few snaps potentially up for grabs as the fifth member of the rotation, or it’s possible the Colts will go with just four regular contributors at defensive end. Like Gumbs, Curry’s impact as a rookie may be felt more so on special teams.
RB Seth McGowan
McGowan will compete with DJ Giddens for the backup running back role. Special teams contributions and ability to hold up in pass pro will be important factors in deciding this competition.
WR Deion Burks
Although a seventh-round pick, Burks could end up competing for meaningful snaps right away. With the WR3 role up for grabs, he, Ashton Dulin, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine should all be in the mix. Burks also provides another potential option in the return game.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Projecting roles for Colts’ 8 draft picks during 2026 season
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
