2025 NFL Offseason: Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis Colts (Last Year: 8-9)

NFL Draft Team Grade: A- Grade

Goals Entering the 2025 NFL Draft: Anthony Richardson’s steep decline last year presents a big issue for the Colts, but they’re stuck with him and Daniel Jones for now. They should do everything in their power to make sure one of those young quarterbacks succeeds, so upgrading the offensive line and tight end makes a lot of sense. The Colts also need some help on defense, primarily at cornerback and linebacker.

2025 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Indianapolis found its tight end at No. 14. The front office planned to draft Colston Loveland, so imagine its surprise when the top tight end on the board was available instead. Tyler Warren was great value at that pick.

The Colts made some solid defensive picks after that, but neglected their offensive line until the fourth round when they took a tackle for depth purposes. That was the only selection they used on a blocker.

Of the Colts’ seven picks beyond Warren, a whopping six of them scored a B+. The exception was a seventh-round pick, which earned a solid “B.” As you can see, the Colts drafted well all weekend, finding good values while filling needs.

NFL Draft Individual Grades:

14. Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State – A+ Grade

A no-brainer. Tyler Warren should have been drafted in the top 10. He could have gone as high as No. 7. This is a steal, and it fills a big need. This pick is definitely worthy of an A+ grade.

45. J.T. Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State – B+ Grade

J.T. Tuimoloau had some first-round buzz, but ultimately went in the second round. I like the value, and I also like the need fit. The Colts will have just one edge rusher under contract following this season in Laiatu Latu, so they had to find a pass rusher to help them beat C.J. Stroud, Trevor Lawrence, and now Cam Ward.

80. Justin Walley, CB, Minnesota – B+ Grade

The Colts have a questionable secondary, so it makes sense to draft someone like Justin Walley, whom I had in the second round consistently. He’s an instinctive cornerback who should help Indianapolis stop the pass. Solid pick.

127. Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State – B+ Grade

The Colts needed offensive tackle depth, so Jalen Travis makes sense in this range. He’s an athletic, big tackle with plenty of upside.

151. D.J. Giddens, RB, Kansas State – B+ Grade

D.J. Giddens is a tough runner who has shown plus receiving ability. The Colts needed a backup for Jonathan Taylor, and they took a decent one here, as Giddens could have been chosen a bit earlier with no complaints.

189. Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame – B+ Grade

I’m sure Colts fans will appreciate this pick because they probably feel as though they don’t have a viable quarterback (though I’d argue that Daniel Jones deserves a shot on a real team.) Riley Leonard could have gone much earlier than this, so the Colts should be graded favorably.

190. Tim Smith, DT, Alabama – B+ Grade

The Colts needed some defensive line depth, so Tim Smith is a logical pick in the sixth round. He has the talent and upside to play well in the pros despite being chosen this late.

232. Hunter Wohler, S, Wisconsin – B Grade

Hunter Wohler was a tackling machine at Wisconsin who was expected to be chosen in this range. He needs to improve in pass coverage. He’ll be a key special teamer in the NFL.

Follow me @walterfootball for updates.