10 best linebacker options for the Colts in the NFL Draft

As we officially enter the month of the NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts’ roster holes continue to be glaringly clear. Will they be addressed through more free agency signings, trades, or purely through the draft? Colts' general manager Chris Ballard has not shied away from filling positions of need through the draft during his tenure. Banking on player development has, more often than not, worked in the Colts’ favor — examples include linebackers Shaquille Leonard, Bobby Okereke, Zaire Franklin and, to an extent, Anthony Walker Jr. 

So, with the linebacker position once again a dire necessity for the Colts, here are the ten best options for Indianapolis to consider with the 47th pick in the second round of the NFL Draft. 

10. Eric Gentry – LB – USC 

Eric Gentry offers a unique toolset with his rare size and length as a linebacker, making him an intriguing depth piece for the Colts. Gentry’s ability to disrupt the pass and effectively play in zone coverage makes him a viable option for what the Colts are trying to improve after a 2025 season that saw significant inconsistency in pass coverage. His speed and strength would also complement defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s aggressive approach to stopping the run. 

9. Owen Heinicke – LB – Oklahoma 

Heinicke brings a never-say-die attitude, as his high-effort playing style aligns with what the Colts value in rotational defenders and special teams contributors. His multi-sport background and steady development suggest he could outperform expectations in a disciplined, goal-oriented scheme. 

8. Jack Kelly – LB – BYU 

Kelly’s versatility as both an off-ball linebacker and a situational blitzer makes him a natural fit in Lou Anarumo’s evolving front. His ability to generate pressure adds a dimension the Colts could use in packages that aim to improve upon last year’s multi-man blitz efforts on passing downs. 

7. Bryce Boettcher – LB – Oregon 

Boettcher profiles as a high-IQ, reliable defender who fits the Colts’ emphasis on sound tackling and defensive discipline. His physicality and proven production make him a safe depth option who could contribute early in multiple roles. 

6. Deontae Lawson – LB – Alabama 

Lawson has natural instincts and the ability to navigate traffic as a defender, traits that would translate well to the Colts’ ever-changing schematic structure. He projects as a steady presence in both coverage and run support, giving Indianapolis a linebacker capable of staying on the field for multiple downs. 

5. Kyle Louis – LB – Pittsburgh 

Louis offers sideline-to-sideline range and physicality, traits that fit the Colts’ need for speed and youth at the second level. His high motor and ability to flow to the ball make him a strong candidate to develop into a reliable starter in a fast, pursuit-based defense, despite his smaller frame. 

4. Josiah Trotter – LB – Missouri 

Trotter’s downhill mentality and run-stopping ability would immediately address physicality concerns in the Colts’ front seven. While he may need refinement in coverage, he sets the tone on early downs with his aggressiveness in pursuit, giving the Colts a much-needed jolt of energy and toughness. 

3. Jake Golday – LB – Cincinnati 

Golday is a high-upside athlete whose length and versatility would give Indianapolis flexibility in deployment. With experience rushing the passer and dropping into coverage, he fits the mold of a developmental linebacker with starter potential in Lou Anarumo’s defense. The Colts are also no strangers to drafting Cincinnati Bearcats and developing them within their system. 

2. Jacob Rodriguez – LB – Texas Tech 

Rodriguez’s instincts and playmaking ability stand out, particularly in coverage, where he processes quickly and attacks the ball. His versatility and football IQ would allow him to thrive in Indianapolis’ zone concepts, even if he needs refinement in tackling consistency. His production on tape this past season makes a compelling case for the Colts to potentially overlook traditional measurables like arm length. 

1. Anthony Hill Jr. – LB – Texas 

Hill projects as an ideal three-down linebacker for the Colts. With elite athleticism, physicality, and versatility, he can rush the passer, defend the run, and hold up in coverage. He profiles as a centerpiece defender capable of elevating the entire unit and could develop into the leader Indianapolis has been seeking at the position. 

As Indianapolis continues to evaluate its roster, the ability to find linebackers who can stay on the field in multiple situations will be critical. This group offers a mix of immediate contributors and developmental prospects who could help shape the future of the Colts’ defense. 

However, linebacker is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. The edge rusher position has thus far been addressed primarily with depth pieces, leaving questions about who can consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. Without a steady pass rush, even the most talented linebackers can be put in difficult positions, especially in a scheme that relies on front-four pressure. 

Offensively, the wide receiver room could also benefit from another dependable option. Adding competition and depth would support the passing game and provide stability in the event of injuries over the course of a long season, especially following the reported loss of Michael Pittman Jr. via a trade to the Steelers. Meanwhile, the offensive line, long considered a strength of the organization, needs renewed competition to solidify protection and reestablish consistency in both pass blocking and the run game, particularly with quarterback Daniel Jones returning from an Achilles injury. 

Taken together, these needs highlight the balancing act facing the Colts’ front office. While linebackers may be a priority, the team must also address key gaps across the roster in an effort to return to the level of last season’s 8-2 start. With the NFL Draft approaching, Indianapolis will need to weigh immediate impact against long-term development, ensuring each selection contributes to building a more complete and resilient team in what is a make-or-break year for head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard. 

If you're interested in being notified when the next article comes out, be sure to scroll down to the "Free Subscription" form and subscribe, we hope you enjoyed!