Colts GM Chris Ballard Faces 3 Key Offseason Priorities

Indianapolis must address pass rush, linebacker depth, and other roster holes before the draft.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:24am

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The Indianapolis Colts have been active in free agency, making nine outside signings and re-signing several of their own players. However, GM Chris Ballard still has three major priorities to address before the NFL Draft: finding a high-impact pass rusher, shoring up the linebacker corps, and adding depth at wide receiver, offensive line, and safety.

Why it matters

The Colts are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and return to the playoffs. Addressing these key roster needs will be crucial for the team to compete in the AFC South. With limited draft capital, Ballard must get creative in free agency and the trade market to fill these holes.

The details

At defensive end, the Colts added Micheal Clemons and Arden Key, but they still need a true top-tier pass rusher to pair with Laiatu Latu. The linebacker group is thin, with Akeem Davis-Gaither as the most experienced player. The Colts also need to find a WR3 to replace Michael Pittman Jr., as well as add depth on the offensive line and at safety.

  • The Colts have been active in free agency since March 15, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, responsible for the team's roster moves and draft strategy.

Micheal Clemons

A defensive end signed by the Colts in free agency to bolster their pass rush.

Arden Key

A defensive end signed by the Colts in free agency to provide depth and rotational help on the defensive line.

Laiatu Latu

The Colts' top pass rusher, who the team is looking to pair with another high-impact defensive end.

Akeem Davis-Gaither

A linebacker signed by the Colts in free agency to provide experience and stability to the position group.

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What they’re saying

“Ideally, those two defenders [Clemons and Key] remain rotational members of the rotation. What the Colts still need to find is a high-impact pass rusher to pair with Laiatu Latu.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“Depth is needed, and more competition for playing time is needed. You name it, the Colts need it at linebacker.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

What’s next

The Colts will look to address these needs through the remainder of free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, where they have seven total picks, including two in the top 100.

The takeaway

With limited draft capital and high-impact free agents off the board, Colts GM Chris Ballard faces a challenging offseason to build a playoff-caliber roster. His ability to find creative solutions at key positions will be crucial to the team's success in 2026.