Colts Land Top Linebacker Prospect in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Indianapolis Colts address linebacker need in second round of recent two-round mock draft.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a recent mock draft simulation, the Indianapolis Colts selected Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. in the second round. Hill Jr. has played nearly 2,000 defensive snaps over the past three seasons, generating 60 quarterback pressures and recording 227 total tackles. He is the fourth-ranked linebacker overall on Mel Kiper Jr.'s big board.

Why it matters

The Colts have a need at linebacker, with Germaine Pratt hitting free agency and little experienced depth beyond Zaire Franklin on the current roster. GM Chris Ballard has discussed the need to get younger and faster on defense, which would apply directly to the linebacker position.

The details

In the mock draft, the computer-simulated Colts selected Anthony Hill Jr., a linebacker from Texas. Hill Jr. has played extensively over the past three seasons, generating 60 quarterback pressures and 227 total tackles. He has experience playing both in the box and in coverage, with 8.3 yards per reception allowed and three interceptions.

  • Over the past three seasons, Hill Jr. has played nearly 2,000 defensive snaps.

The players

Anthony Hill Jr.

A linebacker from the University of Texas who is the fourth-ranked linebacker overall on Mel Kiper Jr.'s big board.

Germaine Pratt

A linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts who is set to hit free agency.

Zaire Franklin

A linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts who is the main experienced depth at the position on the current roster.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts who has discussed the need to get younger and faster on defense.

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What’s next

The Colts will have to evaluate their options at linebacker in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, with the potential selection of Anthony Hill Jr. in the second round being one possibility.

The takeaway

The Colts' selection of a top linebacker prospect in this mock draft highlights their need to address the position and get younger and faster on defense, as GM Chris Ballard has indicated. The addition of a player like Anthony Hill Jr. could provide a significant boost to the Colts' linebacker corps.