Colts Ranked 19th in Early 2026 Power Rankings: A Team Betting on Continuity and Health
The Indianapolis Colts are sitting at No. 19 in ESPN’s early 2026 NFL power rankings - a spot that lands them just below the league’s midpoint and behind two of their AFC South rivals, the Jaguars (No. 9) and Texans (No. 13).
But ahead of the Titans (No. 27), Indy finds itself in a familiar position: underestimated, yet dangerous.
“Running It Back” - With a Few Big Ifs
The Colts are leaning into continuity this offseason. Head coach Shane Steichen and GM Chris Ballard are staying put, and the front office is reportedly working to bring back quarterback Daniel Jones.
That decision - particularly the commitment to Jones - has sparked debate among fans, especially with the quarterback still recovering from a torn Achilles. But the organization appears committed to the formula that had them surging in 2025 before injuries derailed a promising campaign.
Let’s not forget: this team was 8-2 at one point and sitting atop the AFC. That wasn’t a fluke. Steichen’s offensive system clicked, the defense was opportunistic, and the Colts looked like one of the league’s most balanced teams - until the injury bug bit hard.
Now, the Colts are doubling down on the core that got them there. It’s a bold move, especially without a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft (traded for Sauce Gardner at the deadline). That deal signaled a win-now mindset, and this offseason seems to be more of the same.
Quarterback Questions and Free Agency Priorities
The biggest question mark hanging over this team is Jones. His Achilles rehab is still a major variable, and until he’s fully cleared and back to form, the Colts’ quarterback situation remains unsettled. That uncertainty alone could swing the team’s fortunes in either direction.
Beyond Jones, Indy has a handful of key free agents to make decisions on - most notably wide receiver Alec Pierce, who’s expected to be a top priority. His chemistry with Jones (and value in stretching defenses) makes him a logical piece to retain, especially in an offense that thrives on vertical threats.
But the list doesn’t stop there. Safety Nick Cross, right tackle Braden Smith, defensive ends Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam, and linebacker Germaine Pratt are all set to hit the market. That’s a lot of talent with no guaranteed returns, and how the Colts navigate those negotiations will shape the roster’s depth and identity heading into training camp.
Defensive Front Needs a Boost
Even if the Colts bring back most of their core, there’s still work to do - particularly in the front seven. The pass rush needs reinforcements. With no first-round pick, the team may need to dip into free agency to find an impact edge rusher who can complement Gardner’s presence in the secondary and help the defense create more pressure up front.
The good news? The Colts already have a shutdown corner in Gardner and a young, athletic linebacker group. Add a consistent pass rush to that mix, and this defense could be a problem for opposing offenses.
The Bottom Line: A Team Betting on Itself
Ranking 19th in February doesn’t mean much - especially for a team that was pegged as a bottom-tier squad last offseason, only to start 8-2 and look like a legitimate contender. The Colts are banking on health, stability, and a little unfinished business. And while there are still plenty of questions to answer - starting with Jones’ rehab and how they handle free agency - the foundation is there.
If they can stay healthy and make a few smart moves, don’t be surprised if this team climbs the rankings quickly once the season kicks off. They’ve done it before.