Colts final 2026 mock draft roundup: LB dominates, surprise pick made
· Yahoo Sports
Day 1 of the 2026 NFL draft is here, and in the days leading up to the event, draft experts have been submitting their final mock draft predictions. Although the Indianapolis Colts are without a first-round pick, many recent mock drafts have included Round 2 and beyond.
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Although GM Chris Ballard was active in free agency, some pressing roster needs still exist, making it vital that he hits on his Round 2 selection.
So, before the Las Vegas Raiders are on the clock on Thursday evening, let's take one last look at who the experts have the Colts taking in Round 2.
Jordan Reid, ESPN
Pick:Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
What Reid had to say: "The Colts could use their first pick of the draft to replenish the second level of the defense. Rodriguez is viewed as a top-50 prospect due to his playmaking skills, as he forced an FBS-best seven fumbles and intercepted four passes last season."
Takeaway: Rodriguez was one of PFF's highest-graded run defenders at the linebacker position. He also had good ball production in coverage, generating four interceptions and three pass breakups.
Travis May, AtoZ Sports
Pick: Chris Brazzell, WR, Tennessee
Takeaway: This past season was a breakout year for Brazzell from a production standpoint, with him eclipsing the 1,000-yard receiving mark, averaging a hefty 16.5 yards per catch with nine touchdowns. He will add a vertical threat to an offense. The Colts hosted Brazzell on a pre-draft visit.
Rob Rang, FOX Sports
Pick:Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
What Rang had to say: "This is the Colts’ first pick of the 2026 draft and, as such, don’t blame GM Chris Ballard if he’s going to make a splashy entrance. The Colts have ascending stars in the secondary and defensive line yet lack a game-changer at linebacker. Insert Rodriguez, who, with all due respect to potential top-five picks Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, was the best and most consistent playmaker at linebacker last season."
Takeaway: To go along with his production, Rodriguez tested quite well at the NFL combine.
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News
Pick: Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
What Iyer had to say: "The Colts need a corner they can move around to better support Gardner and Abney is a good fit with Lou Anarumo's defense."
Takeaway: Although Kenny Moore could be on the move, the Colts already have his replacement on the roster in Justin Walley, who can line up in the nickel and outside. Cornerback is not a pressing need, making this pick a bit of a surprise if it were to happen.
Justin Melo, Sports Illustrated
Pick: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
What Melo had to say: "Expect a run on linebackers during the second round. This is the Indianapolis Colts' first selection of the draft, as a result of their Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner trade. Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is long, athletic, and rangy, checking preferred boxes for Colts GM Chris Ballard."
Takeaway: Hill Jr. brings a well-rounded skill set to the position and could compete for snaps right away.
Dane Brugler, The Athletic
Pick:Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
Takeaway: Golday has been effective as a blitzer, and in 2025, he was one of PFF's highest graded run defenders at the linebacker position.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Final mock draft roundup for Indianapolis Colts