Colts Hire Arkansas' Marion Hobby as New Defensive Line Coach

Hobby previously coached with Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo in Cincinnati.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Indianapolis Colts are expected to hire University of Arkansas' Marion Hobby as their new defensive line coach, replacing the departed Charlie Partridge. Hobby, a 59-year-old with extensive NFL coaching experience, previously served as the defensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals under current Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.

Why it matters

The Colts' pass rush struggled at times in 2025, ranking 30th in ESPN's pass rush win rate metric. Hiring Hobby, who has a history of developing defensive linemen, could help improve the Colts' ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and bolster their overall defensive performance.

The details

Hobby was set to become the defensive line coach at the University of Arkansas this upcoming season, but is now leaving to join the Colts' staff. He has eight seasons of prior NFL coaching experience, including his time with the Bengals alongside Anarumo from 2021-2024. Hobby will be tasked with improving the Colts' pass rush, which recorded 39 sacks last season (15th in the NFL), and continuing the development of young edge rushers like Laiatu Latu, Ade Adebawore, and JT Tuimoloau.

  • Hobby was set to join Arkansas' staff in 2026.
  • Hobby previously coached with Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo from 2021-2024 with the Cincinnati Bengals.

The players

Marion Hobby

A 59-year-old defensive line coach who is leaving the University of Arkansas to join the Indianapolis Colts' staff.

Lou Anarumo

The defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, who previously worked with Hobby on the Cincinnati Bengals' coaching staff from 2021-2024.

Laiatu Latu

A young edge rusher for the Indianapolis Colts who Hobby will be tasked with developing.

Ade Adebawore

A young edge rusher for the Indianapolis Colts who Hobby will be tasked with developing.

JT Tuimoloau

A young edge rusher for the Indianapolis Colts who Hobby will be tasked with developing.

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What’s next

The Colts will look to Hobby to help improve their pass rush and continue developing their young edge rushers ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Hiring Hobby, who has a history of coaching successful defensive lines in the NFL, is a move by the Colts to bolster their pass rush and defensive performance after a somewhat underwhelming 2025 season in that area.