Colby Wooden is set to embrace a fresh role with the Indianapolis Colts, marking a shift from his previous position with the Green Bay Packers. During the 2025 season, Wooden found himself primarily in the nose tackle position, despite his relatively lighter frame of 290 to 300 pounds. This year, the Colts have different plans for him.
Reflecting on last season, Wooden noted, "I played out of position a little bit. I was the nose, but that's not my normal position."
His new role in Indianapolis promises to align more closely with his strengths and experience. "I'll be doing something that I know how to do," he shared, expressing his excitement about fitting into a scheme that suits him better.
Despite playing out of his usual position, Wooden managed to make an impact. He ranked 38th out of 146 defensive tackles in Pro Football Focus's run-stop rate metric, a testament to his effectiveness against the run. However, as a nose tackle, his primary job was to occupy space and absorb blocks, which naturally limited his pass-rushing opportunities, resulting in just 14 pressures.
In Indianapolis, Wooden anticipates a more aggressive role. "I won't be playing nose, I don't think," he explained.
"I feel like I'm going to be playing that three, a little bit of that four, anywhere from three to five." This adjustment will allow him to attack more, reminiscent of his college days, and focus on getting after the quarterback.
Joining a defensive line that already boasts talents like DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, Wooden will be part of a rotation with Adetomiwa Adebawore. The Colts have also added Derrick Nnadi in free agency, enhancing their run-stopping capabilities. Wooden's new role promises to unleash his potential, offering him the chance to truly showcase his skills in a system that plays to his strengths.