The initial returns on the Indianapolis Colts’ 2026 draft class aren’t impressing one national analyst.
Sports Illustrated’s Justin Melo ranked the Colts’ rookie group 29th among all 32 NFL teams following Week 5 and assigned Indianapolis a D grade.
Indianapolis made linebacker CJ Allen its first selection at No. 53 overall in the second round, but his defensive opportunities have been limited. Melo wrote that the Colts “have not trusted CJ Allen to play WILL linebacker," while Akeem Davis-Gaither starts at the MIKE position.
Third-round safety A.J. Haulcy has received more playing time. Haulcy has started all five games and recorded 21 tackles and two passes defensed, per Colts.com. However, Melo highlighted Haulcy’s 33.0 PFF coverage grade as one
concern surrounding the class.
The most promising player has instead come much later in the draft.
Melo identified seventh-round running back Seth McGowan, selected No. 237 overall, as Indianapolis’ most impactful rookie so far. McGowan has served as a change-of-pace option behind Jonathan Taylor.
The Colts selected eight players in April, including five defenders.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts’ 2026 draft class earns harsh grade in new NFL ranking
