3 Colts specific things to watch for in Round 1 of 2026 NFL draft

The Indianapolis Colts are without a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft. GM Chris Ballard isn't scheduled to make his first selection until 47th overall.

That said, while the Colts likely won't be picking on Thursday, there are still a few Colts-specific items to keep our eyes on as Round 1 unfolds.

Let's dive in.

How many offensive linemen are selected?

The Colts should add to their offensive line unit in the draft, but not at pick 47. So why should we monitor how many linemen are selected in Round 1?

Well, ESPN's Dan Graziano is predicting that 7 to 10 offensive linemen could be taken in the first round alone. If things do play out that way, that could then push down prospects at other position groups, perhaps like linebacker or defensive end -- two of the more pressing needs that the Colts have.

This doesn't guarantee that a steal at defensive end or linebacker is available when the Colts are on the clock in Round 2, but it doesn't hurt either when positions that aren't a high priority are taken before Indianapolis selects.

How many defensive ends and linebackers are taken?

As we know, these are two of the biggest needs that the Colts have. So the more defensive ends and linebackers taken in the first round likely means fewer options available for the Colts in Round 2.

While we don't expect a first-round talent at one of those positions to fall to Indianapolis, the more players from those positions taken in Round 1 could mean that a run on either position group takes place on Day 2 before the Colts are on the clock, as other teams hurry to address those needs.