Colts Grab Linebacker, Quarterback in 3-Round 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Indianapolis Colts address defensive and quarterback needs in recent 3-round NFL mock draft

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In a recent three-round 2026 NFL mock draft, the Indianapolis Colts used their second-round pick to select Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday and then took Penn State quarterback Drew Allar in the third round, addressing key needs on both sides of the ball.

Why it matters

The Colts are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and solidify their roster through the draft. The selections of Golday and Allar in this mock draft suggest the team is focused on improving their defense and potentially finding a long-term solution at quarterback.

The details

With their second-round pick at No. 47 overall, the Colts selected Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday, a 6'4", 240-pound defender who has been effective as a blitzer and run defender. In coverage, Golday held opponents to under 9.0 yards per catch and forced three pass breakups in 2025. In the third round, the Colts took Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, despite already having Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson on the roster.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Jake Golday

A 6'4", 240-pound linebacker from the University of Cincinnati who has been a productive defender, especially against the run, during his college career.

Drew Allar

A quarterback prospect from Penn State University who the Indianapolis Colts selected in the third round of this 2026 NFL mock draft.

Daniel Jones

The current starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts who is expected to return to the team in 2026.

Anthony Richardson

A quarterback on the Indianapolis Colts' roster who could compete for the starting job in 2026.

Riley Leonard

A quarterback who started for the Indianapolis Colts in Week 18 of the 2025 season and performed well.

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What they’re saying

“Depth at linebacker is needed for the Colts, along with an added coverage presence next to Zaire Franklin. But of note, and this is just one evaluation, NFL.com's Lance Zierlein wrote in his pre-draft report that Golday is "average" in coverage and has made a greater impact near the line of scrimmage.”

— Gordon McGuiness, Pro Football Focus Analyst (usatoday.com)

What’s next

The Colts will continue to evaluate their quarterback situation and linebacker needs as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

The Colts appear to be addressing key areas of need in this 2026 NFL mock draft, but the selection of a quarterback in the third round is a bit surprising given their current depth at the position. The team will need to carefully weigh their options and make strategic picks to continue building a competitive roster.