The 2025 NFL Draft is now a full season in the rearview mirror, and the annual post-mortem analysis is in full swing. For the Indianapolis Colts, one early selection has already been flagged as a potential misstep. A recent look back at the draft class by SI's Matt Verderame named Colts second-round defensive end JT Tuimoloau among the year's "biggest misses," casting a spotlight on a puzzling rookie campaign.

The pick initially made strategic sense. Coming off a productive career at Ohio State where he showcased a well-rounded game, Tuimoloau was seen as a potential first-round talent who fell to the Colts in the second. The vision was clear: pair his power and skill opposite the dynamic Laiatu Latu, creating a formidable young bookend duo for the Colts' defensive front.

That vision, however, never materialized on the field. Despite the Colts' glaring need for pass-rush help—they finished a dismal 30th in ESPN's pass rush win rate—Tuimoloau found himself buried on the depth chart. He was limited to just 215 defensive snaps across 13 games, often a healthy scratch, and registered zero sacks. While he joined a room with established veterans like Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam, his inability to crack the rotation on a struggling unit raised significant questions.

As the Colts look ahead to 2026, all eyes will be on Tuimoloau's crucial second act. The opportunity is undeniably there. With a starting spot opposite Latu genuinely up for grabs and competition from players like Arden Key, Year 2 represents a make-or-break moment for the young defensive end to prove his draft pedigree and become the impact player Indianapolis desperately needs.