With two joint practices and a preseason game looming, the Colts are getting a better read on their 2026 rookie class - and a few of these first-year players are already carving out real roles.
The clearest name near the top of the pile is linebacker CJ Allen. He has missed plenty of camp because of calf and hamstring injuries, but when he’s been available, the Colts have kept him with the first-team defense.
The coaching staff has clearly liked what it has seen, and Allen looks like a Day 1 starter. Cam Bynum, though, still appears set to wear the green dot.
At safety, S AJ Haulcy seems to have the inside track on the starting job next to Bynum. He had been battling Hunter Wohler for that spot, and while the team hasn’t made anything official, that role does look like Haulcy’s to lose. His value goes beyond just one position, too, thanks to the versatility and ball skills he brings to the secondary.
Up front, G Jalen Farmer is shaping up as a depth piece for his first season. He’s expected to back up at right guard and could also be an option on the left side if needed.
That lines up with his college background, where every one of his snaps came on the right side of the line. He’s also spent plenty of time there in camp, while Dalton Tucker remains a possible option at left guard.
Linebacker Bryce Boettcher has brought a different kind of energy to the defense. He’s been flying around the field and adding another physical presence in the middle. Right now, he’s in the mix with Jaylon Carlies and Austin Ajiake for the top backup linebacker spot.
There’s still some projection involved with DE George Gumbs Jr., who is relatively new to the position and still needs refinement. Even so, he has already shown the kind of upside that makes him worth keeping around. He likely makes the roster, though his role in Year 1 may be limited.
Caden Curry made one of the stronger early pushes of the group. He stood out in the Colts’ preseason opener, and that performance should earn him more chances to challenge Micheal Clemons and Jaylahn Tuimoloau for snaps.
Running back Seth McGowan has taken advantage of DJ Giddens being sidelined. He’s handled most of the RB2 reps, and at this point the job seems there for the taking. McGowan’s physical style stands out, but the Colts still want to see more from him in the passing game, especially as a blocker.
At receiver, Deion Burks is battling for a roster spot. He brings more flexibility than Anthony Gould and Coleman Owen because he can line up both inside and outside, but the return game may end up deciding who claims that final wideout spot.
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