The Indianapolis Colts are heading into a pivotal offseason-and the focus is likely to be on the defensive side of the ball. With only 63% of their defensive snaps from the 2025 season accounted for by players currently under contract, the Colts are staring down one of the highest potential turnover rates in the league. That 63% figure ranks seventh-lowest across the NFL, and it paints a clear picture: this defense could look very different come Week 1 of 2026.
Let’s break down what that means and where the biggest questions lie.
Key Departures Looming on Defense
The list of unrestricted free agents on defense isn’t just long-it’s packed with impact players. Defensive ends Samson Ebukam, Tyquan Lewis, and Kwity Paye are all set to hit the market, leaving a major void at a position that’s already in flux. With Liatu Latu locked in on one edge, the Colts need to figure out who’s lining up opposite him-and fast.
Linebacker Germaine Pratt is another name to watch. His potential departure would leave a sizable gap next to Zaire Franklin, who remains a steady presence in the middle of the field. The Colts will need to either re-sign Pratt or find a capable replacement to avoid a drop-off in production at a position that’s central to their defensive identity.
On the back end, safety Nick Cross is headed for free agency as well. With Cam Bynum returning, the Colts still need to identify a reliable starter to pair with him. Cross has flashed potential, but if he walks, Indianapolis will have to dip into free agency or the draft to find another answer at the position.
Interior defensive line depth is also a concern, with Neville Gallimore among those hitting the open market. While not a headline-grabber, Gallimore provided valuable rotational snaps, and his role will need to be filled either internally or through outside additions.
Defensive Rebuild or Reload?
With so many key pieces potentially walking out the door, this offseason could shape up to be defense-heavy for the Colts. That doesn’t necessarily mean a full rebuild, but it does require a calculated approach. The front office has to balance retaining core contributors with bringing in fresh talent to elevate the unit as a whole.
The good news? The Colts have the cap space to be active players in free agency.
That financial flexibility gives them options-whether it’s re-signing veterans, pursuing upgrades, or adding depth across the board. They’ll need it, too, because the draft won’t be a cure-all.
Without a first-round pick this year, the Colts will have to make the most of their seven total selections, including compensatory picks, to address key needs.
What’s Next?
Chris Ballard and the Colts’ front office have some tough decisions to make. Do they invest in bringing back players like Paye or Pratt?
Or do they pivot and use that cap space to reshape the defense with outside talent? Either way, the defensive line, linebacker corps, and secondary all need attention.
This isn’t just about plugging holes-it’s about building a defense that can keep pace with the evolving offenses across the AFC. With a young quarterback on a rookie deal and offensive pieces in place, the Colts have a window. But to truly contend, they’ll need a defense that can hold its own.
The pieces are there for a strong offseason. Now it’s up to the Colts to put them together.