April 1, 2026, 1:03 p.m. ET<\/p>\n
The linebacker position remains a major roster hole for the Indianapolis Colts<\/a>.<\/p>\n Despite the addition of Akeem Davis-Gaither in free agency, there is still a significant lack of experience within this position group.<\/p>\n Depth is needed, and more competition for playing time is needed. You name it, the Colts<\/a> need it at linebacker. Relying on the current iteration of this room to make an impact comes with risks, given the lack of experience.<\/p>\n GM Chris Ballard hasn’t ruled out continuing to add to this position through free agency.<\/a> But realistically, if that’s going to happen, it may not take place until after the NFL draft.<\/p>\n “We feel good about the guys we have,” Ballard said<\/a>, “some young players, but also some guys that are still out there, and plus the draft.”<\/p>\n Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.<\/a><\/p>\n With a pair of Day 2 draft picks, here are a few of the top linebacker options for the Colts.<\/p>\n Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech<\/p>\n Rodriguez was one of\u00a0PFF’s<\/a>\u00a0highest-graded run defenders at the linebacker position. He also had good ball production in coverage, generating four interceptions and three pass breakups. Rodriguez forced seven fumbles as well.<\/p>\n Josiah Trotter, Missouri<\/p>\n This past year, with Missouri, Trotter was one of\u00a0PFF’s<\/a>\u00a0highest graded run defenders at the linebacker position. He also logged 14 pressures and three sacks as a blitzer. In coverage, he allowed 27 completions on 32 targets at 8.8 yards per catch. Trotter did not log any ball production.<\/p>\n Jake Golday, Cincinnati<\/p>\n Golday has played over 2,000 career defensive snaps at the college level. He’s been effective as a blitzer, and in 2025, he was one of\u00a0PFF’s highest graded<\/a>\u00a0run defenders at the linebacker position. In coverage, he held opponents to under 9.0 yards per catch, while forcing three pass breakups.<\/p>\n