Colts Draft: 5 Picks Rank High on ESPN’s Value List | NFL 2024
- Five of the Indianapolis Colts’ eight selections in the 2026 NFL draft were ranked among the top 100 best picks, steals, and fits, according to ESPN’s Matt Miller.
- Miller’s list evaluates players based on their potential impact and value relative to their draft position.
- Here’s a breakdown of the Colts’ players featured on Miller’s list, along with his assessment of each pick:
Five of the Indianapolis Colts’ eight selections in the 2026 NFL draft were ranked among the top 100 best picks, steals, and fits, according to ESPN’s Matt Miller. The rankings, published on April 29, 2026, highlight the Colts’ success in the draft despite not having a first-round selection.
Miller’s list evaluates players based on their potential impact and value relative to their draft position. The Colts’ selections that made the cut demonstrate the team’s ability to identify talent and address key needs throughout the draft.
Colts Players Ranked in ESPN’s Top 100
Here’s a breakdown of the Colts’ players featured on Miller’s list, along with his assessment of each pick:
“Checking off a crucial need without a first-round pick, and doing so with a player many had in the top 32 when the season ended, is good drafting.”
Matt Miller on LB CJ Allen
15. LB CJ Allen, Georgia – Round 2, pick 53: Miller praised the selection of Allen, noting that he filled a crucial need at linebacker for the Colts. Allen is expected to start immediately at the MIKE linebacker position.
“Haulcy looks like a safety who should be in the box on 90% of his snaps, but he dropped into deep coverage and picked off passes in pressure situations for LSU. He can also play in the box and stack up against the run.”
Matt Miller on S AJ Haulcy
20. S AJ Haulcy, LSU – Round 3, pick 78: Haulcy was lauded for his versatility, with Miller highlighting his ability to excel both in run support and in pass coverage. He is expected to compete for a starting role alongside Cam Bynum in the Colts’ secondary.
“The hope is that Nelson will be back in Indianapolis long term and will remain one of the NFL’s best guards, but Farmer could be the next man up at either guard spot given his college experience at right guard.”
Matt Miller on OL Jalen Farmer
72. OL Jalen Farmer, Kentucky – Round 4, pick 113: Farmer was identified as potential depth on the offensive line, with Miller suggesting he could compete for playing time at either guard position. Chris Ballard, the Colts’ general manager, also believes Farmer has the potential to play tackle.
“Curry lacks length but has power in his game and should provide a version of what the Colts got from Kwity Paye last season…”
Matt Miller on DE Caden Curry
86. DE Caden Curry, Ohio State – Round 6, pick 214: Miller noted Curry’s power and potential to contribute as a pass rusher, drawing a comparison to Kwity Paye.
The Colts’ overall performance in the 2026 NFL draft has been widely praised by analysts, particularly given their lack of a first-round pick. Miller’s rankings add to the positive assessment, suggesting that the Colts may have found several players who will make an immediate impact on the field.