Jan. 14, 2026, 1:32 p.m. ET

There’s a long way to go before the NFL’s free agency period begins in mid-March, but let’s make some early predictions for several of the Indianapolis Colts’ key free agents in 2026.

Salary cap-wise, the Colts enter the 2026 offseason in good shape with $33.8 million in space available — the 13th most in football.

Last offseason, we saw GM Chris Ballard take a more aggressive approach to how he built out his Colts’ roster. From the sounds of it, he plans to do the same this time around as well.

After missing the postseason for the fifth consecutive year, more change to this Colts team is needed. So what might that mean for this year’s group of free agents?

Predicting whether key Colts’ free agents stay or go

QB Daniel Jones: Both Shane Steichen and Chris Ballard have made it clear they want Jones back. Jones has said he’d like to return as well. Stay.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.

WR Alec Pierce: In Ballard’s words, “Alec’s a priority.” The Colts would be foolish to let him sign elsewhere. Stay.

OT Braden Smith: Rookie Jalen Travis proved to be a capable starter in Smith’s absence. Go.

DE Kwity Paye, DE Samson Ebukam, DE Tyquan Lewis: I’m going to lump these three together. This position group has to be reshaped this offseason. More pass rush juice is needed. Go.

IDL Neville Gallimore: Flip a coin on this one. I think Gallimore showed enough this past year, and he won’t break the bank by any means to bring back. Stay.

TE Mo Alie Cox: Unlike at this time a year ago, the Colts now have Tyler Warren, not to mention that Drew Ogletree — assuming he’s back as a restricted free agent — can fill the blocking-heavy role. Go.

LB Germaine Pratt: Ballard said the Colts need to get younger and faster on defense. To me, that means being intentional about addressing the linebacker position. Go.

S Nick Cross: The Colts invested in the safety position last offseason by signing Cam Bynum. I think Cross gets more money elsewhere. Go.

For the complete list of Colts’ unrestricted free agents, you can find that here.