March 27, 2026, 6:41 a.m. ET
With NFL free agency at a near standstill, we will be evaluating the current state of each Indianapolis Colts’ position group, specifically, where things stand and whether or not more moves need to be made.
GM Chris Ballard has now made nine outside free agent signings over the last week-plus, along with re-signing a number of the Colts‘ own free agents.
However, there is still work to be done, as the Colts still have several roster holes to address. The good news is that the Colts have a good amount of salary cap space to work with.
In the draft, the Colts are without a first-round pick and have a modest seven selections in total.
Up next in our review is the linebacker position. If you missed our other positional reviews, you can find them below.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Colts‘ linebackers under contract after free agencyAkeem Davis-GaitherAustin AjiakeJaylon CarliesJohn BullockJoseph VaughnDevin VeresukColts free agency moves at linebackerColts traded Zaire Franklin to the Packers for DT Colby WoodenFree agent Germaine Pratt remains unsigned.Free agent Segun Olubi signed with the Raiders.What is the need at linebacker for the Colts after free agency?
What’s the need? Well, it’s a very big one. Even with the addition of Davis-Gaither, this is a position group very short on experience. The next most experienced player on the roster at linebacker is Jaylon Carlies, who has played 242 career snaps — most of which came in 2024.
Depth is needed, and more competition for playing time is needed. You name it, the Colts need it at linebacker. This is a position where Ballard should be double-dipping in the NFL draft.