Colts final 2026 mock draft roundup: LB dominates, surprise pick made

Rob Rang, FOX Sports

Pick: Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech

What Rang had to say: "This is the Colts’ first pick of the 2026 draft and, as such, don’t blame GM Chris Ballard if he’s going to make a splashy entrance. The Colts have ascending stars in the secondary and defensive line yet lack a game-changer at linebacker. Insert Rodriguez, who, with all due respect to potential top-five picks Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, was the best and most consistent playmaker at linebacker last season."

Takeaway: To go along with his production, Rodriguez tested quite well at the NFL combine.

Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News

Pick: Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State

What Iyer had to say: "The Colts need a corner they can move around to better support Gardner and Abney is a good fit with Lou Anarumo's defense."

Takeaway: Although Kenny Moore could be on the move, the Colts already have his replacement on the roster in Justin Walley, who can line up in the nickel and outside. Cornerback is not a pressing need, making this pick a bit of a surprise if it were to happen.

Justin Melo, Sports Illustrated

Pick: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

What Melo had to say: "Expect a run on linebackers during the second round. This is the Indianapolis Colts' first selection of the draft, as a result of their Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner trade. Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is long, athletic, and rangy, checking preferred boxes for Colts GM Chris Ballard."

Takeaway: Hill Jr. brings a well-rounded skill set to the position and could compete for snaps right away.

Dane Brugler, The Athletic

Pick: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Takeaway: Golday has been effective as a blitzer, and in 2025, he was one of PFF's highest graded run defenders at the linebacker position.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Final mock draft roundup for Indianapolis Colts