The Indianapolis Colts are set to kick off organized team activities (OTAs) on May 26, officially launching the 2026 roster-building season. With the draft behind them and major free agency acquisitions settled, the focus shifts to finalizing the depth chart at Grand Park's practice fields.
General Manager Chris Ballard and Head Coach Shane Steichen have assembled a roster blending established veterans with promising young talent. Yet, as any Colts fan knows, depth charts in May remain tentative. Below are eight position battles that will command attention as OTAs begin, each carrying implications that could impact the Colts' 2026 season.
1. Running Back: The Battle Behind Jonathan Taylor
Jonathan Taylor remains the unquestioned feature back for the Colts. However, competition for the No. 2 and No. 3 roles behind him is poised to be one of the offseason's most intriguing stories. The Colts added dynamic runner DJ Giddens this offseason, bringing a different style to the backfield. He will vie with holdovers Ulysses Bentley IV and Seth McGowan for snaps.
Giddens has garnered early praise for his explosive cutting ability and pass-catching skills--attributes that could complement Taylor's punishing ground game. Bentley showed flashes in limited action last season, while McGowan provides size suited for short-yardage situations. Historically, the Colts keep three to four backs on the roster, suggesting at least one contender will have to look elsewhere come September.
This competition also holds special teams significance. Running backs who can contribute on coverage units or as kick returners typically have an edge, making pass protection a key factor in the coaches' evaluation. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter's deployment of backups during 11-on-11 drills will offer early insight into who earns the staff's trust in this critical role.
2. Wide Receiver: Sorting the Depth Behind the Starters
The Colts' wide receiver room features a compelling mix of proven performers and up-and-comers. Josh Downs and Alec Pierce are expected to spearhead the group, while veterans Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Ashton Dulin provide steady experience. Beyond these core contributors, the battle intensifies.
Newcomers Deion Burks and Raylen Sharpe are hungry to carve out roles. Anthony Gould, noted for his elite speed, will push for a spot working both as a receiver and return specialist. Developmental prospects Eli Pancol and Coleman Owen aim to make impressions as potential surprises.
A key question is how many receivers Indianapolis will carry. If Coach Steichen emphasizes multiple-wide receiver sets, the Colts could roster six or seven receivers, opening potential rotational roles to players like Burks or Sharpe. Special teams prowess, as always, will be a vital tie-breaker for players fighting for roster spots near the bottom of the depth chart.
3. Offensive Line: Interior Depth and Swing Tackle Competition
The offensive line looks solid on paper, anchored by All-Pro left guard Quenton Nelson and reliable left tackle Bernhard Raimann. But the depth chart behind them is unsettled. Matt Goncalves, LaDarius Henderson, and Dalton Tucker are competing for reserve interior spots, while the swing tackle role remains open.
Blake Freeland and Jalen Travis are the main candidates at tackle, with Luke Tenuta also in the mix. The Colts prioritize versatility on the line; the player capable of competently manning multiple tackle positions or shifting inside to guard will gain a roster advantage.
Starter Tanor Bortolini is firmly entrenched at center with Jimmy Morrissey providing depth. Though this competition won't finalize in OTAs, early reps will establish a pecking order entering training camp, influencing how the Colts manage injuries and rotations throughout the season.
4. Cornerback: Who Starts Opposite Sauce Gardner?
The addition of cornerback Sauce Gardner this offseason was transformative for Indianapolis's secondary. However, the battle for the starting cornerback role opposite him is wide open.
Veteran Charvarius Ward brings playoff experience and steady play, while Cam Taylor-Britt offers a physical, press-man style aligning with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo's scheme. Mekhi Blackmon and Jaylon Jones, younger corners with upside, are also competing. Cameron Mitchell adds depth to a group markedly deeper than in previous seasons.
Anarumo values versatile defensive backs capable of executing both man and zone coverages. Consistency, communication, and the ability to shadow the opposition's top route runners without safety help will be pivotal factors. This position battle could significantly define the Colts' defensive identity for the 2026 season.
5. Safety: Building the Back End
The safeties group remains in flux. Cam Bynum has the potential to start, but the other starting role and overall depth are open questions. Jonathan Owens, Daniel Scott, and Juanyeh Thomas are all contenders for meaningful playing time. Younger players Trey Washington and Hunter Wohler look to impress and compete for roster spots.
Anarumo's defense requires safeties to be versatile, handling deep coverage and in-the-box responsibilities. Players must be adept at blitzing, covering tight ends, and run support. OTAs will only partially resolve this competition, but the initial reps will signal which players can handle the multifaceted demands at the position.
6. Defensive Edge: Rotational Rush Roles
The defensive end group is anchored by Laiatu Latu, a high-investment priority for the Colts, and veteran Arden Key. Behind them, the depth chart remains unsettled.
Powerful run stoppers Micheal Clemons and younger pass-rush specialist JT Tuimoloau are pushing for rotations. Durell Nchami offers developmental potential as well.
In modern NFL defenses, rotational deepness often determines play-calling and effectiveness. The Colts will likely keep five or more defensive ends. The battle will hinge on who can consistently pressure starting offensive tackles and contribute on special teams when out of the rotation.
7. Linebacker: Sorting the Second Level
Significant turnover has marked the linebacking corps. Jaylon Carlies returns as a starter candidate, while veteran Akeem Davis-Gaither offers experience. Behind them, the competition is wide open.
Youngsters CJ Allen, Bryce Boettcher, and Caden Curry aim to rise up the depth chart. Linebackers will be tested rigorously in coverage drills throughout OTAs. Today's NFL linebackers must move fluidly with tight ends and running backs. The player who displays the best instincts and pass coverage skills can vault to a key role. Pass-rushing ability from the second level remains a valued skill under Anarumo.
8. Specialists: Kicking Competition
The kicking job is one of the few definitive competitions on the roster. Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader are both invested in by the Colts and will compete head-to-head.
Special teams play can be notoriously difficult to evaluate until preseason games, but initial OTA drills will offer early indicators. Consistency and reliability in kick accuracy and kickoff distance will set the tone for the summer competition.
Long snapper Luke Rhodes and punter Rigoberto Sanchez are locked in, but the kicking battle promises to be one of the most closely watched positional duels throughout the offseason.
While OTAs won't resolve every contest definitively, they will shape narratives and depth-chart hierarchies heading into training camp. The Colts' roster shows promise in a highly competitive AFC South, but the actual pecking order remains unwritten.
Players who seize their opportunities early may set themselves up for breakout 2026 campaigns or face the start of their tenure clock in Indianapolis. For a franchise aiming to take the next step forward, these eight position battles represent both opportunity and urgency.
The answers we see emerge during OTAs will provide strong indications about the Colts' potential and identity for the coming NFL season. Fans watching closely will witness the groundwork laid for Indianapolis's 2026 push.