What are the Indianapolis Colts’ biggest positions of need going into the 2025 NFL offseason?
Recently, NFL.com weighed in on what they believe those top needs are.
In terms of the opportunity to address these needs, the Colts have just over $24 million in effective salary cap space, which ranks around the middle of the NFL, although they do have the ability to create quite a bit more room. In the draft, the Colts hold seven draft picks–one in each round.
If Ballard does intent to bolster the competition throughout the roster as he stated in his season-ending press conference, then there are also more than just five positions he could justify adding to.
In no particular order, let’s take a look at the positions NFL.com selected, and let’s break down where the need lies for the Colts.
Interior offensive line: I would guess Tanor Bortolini slides into the starting center position with Ryan Kelly set to be a free agent. However, Will Fries is also a free agent, so whether it’s bringing him back or someone else, the Colts need to find a right guard. Mark Glowinski and Danny Pinter are free agents as well, so depth is needed.
Tight end: As GM Chris Ballard said at his season ending press conference, the Colts need a much bigger presence in the passing game from this position group. In addition to that, Mo Alie-Cox and Kylen Granson are free agents, so depth is also a need.
Cornerback and Safety: Let’s lump these two together since they go hand-in-hand. There was some good in 2024, specifically the growth we saw from Nick Cross, Jaylon Jones, and Samuel Womack. But the overall performance still wasn’t good enough in the secondary. In several key metrics, such as yards per pass attempt, completion rate, pass deflections, explosive plays, and passer rating, the Colts ranked in the bottom third of the NFL.
Linebacker: There was good from the Colts’ linebackers in 2024, but there was inconsistency as well. Opposing tight ends and pass-catchers found success over the middle of the field against the Colts and the up-and-down linebacker play contributed to the run game woes as well. Zaire Franklin will return and Jaylon Carlies showed promise in his first NFL season, but EJ Speed and Grant Stuard are free agents.
