The Indianapolis Colts head into the 2026 NFL Draft facing a complicated situation one shaped by both bold ambition and recent inconsistency.
At certain points last season, the Colts looked like genuine contenders, showing flashes of dominance on both sides of the ball. However, that momentum began to fade in the weeks leading up to Daniel Jones’ season-ending Achilles injury. Despite the dip in form, Indianapolis made a headline-grabbing move, trading away their 2026 first-round pick and their top 2027 selection to acquire All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner, a decision that signaled a clear win-now mindset.
That aggressive approach, however, has left them with limited draft capital this year. As things stand, the Colts won’t make their first selection until pick No. 47, with their only other top-116 pick coming at No. 78 in the third round. This lack of early-round flexibility makes it significantly harder to predict who might still be available when they’re finally on the clock.
Even so, the front office appears to have identified a few mid-round targets and one name, in particular, is gaining attention.
According to NFL insider Tony Pauline, the Colts are “very high” on TCU linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr. His draft stock has surged in recent months, putting him firmly in the Day 2 conversation—right around where Indianapolis is set to pick.
Elarms-Orr’s rise hasn’t been accidental. Entering his senior season, he was viewed as a late-round prospect at best. But a standout final year, combined with impressive performances at key pre-draft events like the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine, has dramatically improved his outlook. He’s now widely projected to be selected within the first 60 picks.
Described as a natural off-ball linebacker, Elarms-Orr has drawn praise for his athleticism, speed, and ability to cover ground quickly, traits that are increasingly valuable in today’s fast-paced NFL defenses. Those strengths make him an intriguing fit for teams looking to add versatility in the middle of the field.
However, he’s not without areas for improvement. Some evaluators have raised concerns about his football IQ and decision-making, though many believe those aspects can be refined with professional coaching and experience at the next level.
The Colts aren’t alone in their interest. Pauline notes that several other teams including the Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, and Minnesota Vikings have also conducted interviews with Elarms-Orr and are closely monitoring his availability.
With limited picks but clear intent, Indianapolis will need to be precise in their selections. Targeting a rising prospect like Elarms-Orr could be a strategic move one that balances immediate need with long-term upside.
