Colts get through 'run on linebackers,' address top need in mock draft

A final 2026 NFL mock draft from Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo has the Indianapolis Colts making a much-needed addition to the linebacker position.

After Melo completed his final first-round mock, he put together a separate Round 2 mock draft as well, giving us the opportunity to see who he believes the Colts could select.

With that 47th pick, the Colts picked Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. -- a popular pick for Indianapolis in many mocks. Of note for the Colts, Melo says "expect a run on linebackers" in the second round.

"Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is long, athletic, and rangy, checking preferred boxes for Colts GM Chris Ballard," wrote Melo.

Hill Jr. has played nearly 2,000 defensive snaps over the last three seasons. During that span, he has generated 60 quarterback pressures and logged 227 total tackles, according to PFF.

In coverage, he's allowed 8.3 yards per reception with three interceptions and two pass breakups. While mostly playing from the box, Hill Jr. has experience in the slot and lining up along the defensive front.

In Lance Zierlein's pre-draft scouting report, he would write that Hill Jr. can be a "Three-down linebacker with the playing demeanor and production of a future Pro Bowler."

He would have the opportunity to compete for starting snaps immediately, in a room for the Colts that is very short on experience, outside of Akeem Davis-Gaither.

Hill Jr. is the 48th-ranked prospect and the fifth-ranked linebacker on the consensus big board.