AJ Haulcy selected by Colts in 2026 NFL Draft: Grade, analysis stats

TL;DR

The Indianapolis Colts selected A.J. Haulcy in the 2026 NFL Draft, addressing their need for a strong safety. This decision aligns with GM Chris Ballard's strategy of not forcing selections based on positional needs.

Key points

A.J. Haulcy selected by the Colts in the 2026 NFL Draft
Colts address strong safety position
Chris Ballard emphasizes not forcing positional selections
Colts signed three free agent safeties prior to the draft
Haulcy expected to start alongside Camryn Bynum

A.J. HaulcyCamryn BynumIndianapolis Colts

AJ Haulcy selected by Colts in 2026 NFL Draft: Grade, analysis stats

INDIANAPOLIS -- Colts general manager Chris Ballard told reporters Monday afternoon that Indianapolis wouldn’t force selections on positions of need, no matter how big the void may be.

It would’ve been hard to argue coming into Friday’s second round of the NFL Draft that the Colts had no bigger needs than at linebacker and edge rusher after six weeks of free agency. In the third round of the draft, though, the Colts called an audible, holding true to Ballard’s promise.

A team that signed three free agent safeties in free agency – none of them sure-fire starters – seems to have found its new Week 1 starter at strong safety, alongside free safety Camryn Bynum, in LSU’s A.J. Haulcy.

Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; LSU defensive back AJ Haulcy (DB36) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Safety AJ Haulcy 13 interception as LSU Tigers take on the Texas A&M Aggies. October 25, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; at Tiger Stadium. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025.