Colts have virtual pre-draft meeting with experienced QB prospect

An experienced quarterback prospect is on the Indianapolis Colts' radar ahead of the 2026 NFL draft.

In an interview with Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo, Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer met virtually with the Colts.

Let's take a closer look at what Altmyer could bring to the Colts.

Colts 2026 NFL draft prospect to watch: QB Luke Altmyer

There aren't many quarterbacks in this draft cycle who will have more experience than Altmyer. After starting his career at Ole Miss, Altmyer spent the last three seasons at Illinois, appearing in 35 games while taking over 1,200 career dropbacks.

From 2024 to 2025, Altmyer saw a big increase in efficiency, completing 67% of his passes compared to 60% the year prior. He also averaged 8.2 yards per pass attempt, which was up from his 7.8 mark the year prior. Over that two-year span, Altmyer threw 44 touchdowns to 11 interceptions and rushed for over 900 yards.

Altmyer is the 237th-ranked prospect on the consensus big board.

Luke Altmyer's draft profile

Here is what NFL.com's Lance Zierlein had to say in his pre-draft scouting report:

"Three-year starter with solid passing production relative to the lack of protection he saw in 2025. Altmyer has experience in pro passing concepts and shows decent eye discipline/patience to give the play a chance. He throws with adequate anticipation into zone windows but a slower operation time and lack of arm talent hurt his chances of beating tight man coverage. Edge pressure sneaks up on him and he hasn’t learned to avoid sacks often enough. Altmyer could have a tough time beating out pro backups for a roster spot."

What kind of impact can Luke Altmyer have?

At the conclusion of his interview with Melo, Altmyer was asked about the impact he could have at the NFL level.

"I win football games. I’ve done that at a pretty high level throughout the course of my career. The game is about winning. I do that by putting my team in good positions. I’m going to make the team better. I think my talent shows up on tape. I have a lot of intangibles. I bring a lot of value to the table."

What is the Colts' need at quarterback?

With Daniel Jones under contract, the need here is low. The Colts put all of their offseason eggs in the Daniel Jones basket, believing that the success that he had through the first half of last season can be repeated and sustained, even with him coming off a major injury.

Assuming the Colts do find a trade partner for Anthony Richardson, that still leaves them with Riley Leonard as the team's backup. Leonard impressed during his Week 18 start against Houston last season, showcasing that he is ready to fill that backup role.

Perhaps later in the draft or afterward in undrafted free agency, the Colts will make an addition to compete with Seth Henigan for the third quarterback spot on the depth chart. Before the Colts can bring in another developmental quarterback, there are more pressing needs to tackle.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Colts meet virtually with Illinois QB Luke Altmyer