With the 2026 NFL draft almost here, analysts are putting together their final 7-round predictions. The latest belongs to ESPN's Jordan Reid.

So, who did the Indianapolis Colts come away with? Not surprisingly, it was a defensive-heavy mock draft for Indianapolis.

Let's go pick-by-pick and break down each selection.

The Colts are currently quite short on experience at the linebacker position. Rodriguez was one of PFF's highest-graded run defenders at the linebacker position. He also had good ball production in coverage, generating four interceptions and three pass breakups. Rodriguez forced seven fumbles and tested very well at the NFL combine.

Stribling fits the mold of what Chris Ballard looks for in a wide receiver. He is a very experienced player. During the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Stribling eclipsed the 800-yard mark and has been able to generate chunk plays, averaging almost 16 yards per catch over that span, which includes averaging an impressive 7.0 yards after the catch. He's a willing run blocker as well.

Tucker put together a huge season at Western Michigan in 2025, recording 61 quarterback pressures and 14 sacks, according to PFF. Those 61 pressures were the ninth-most among defensive ends last season. Tucker also held his own in the run game as well.

Thomas has ample experience lining up at both deep safety and in the box. Last season, Thomas' ball production was excellent, as he recorded five interceptions and six pass breakups. He also got after the quarterback as a blitzer. Missed tackles have been an issue.

Hubbard has had steady production the last two seasons, totaling 29 pressures in 2024 and 31 this past season. He's done well to convert those opportunities to sacks, totaling 14 over that same two-year span, according to PFF.

This is an under-the-radar need for the Colts. Tanor Bortolini's backup at the moment is Jimmy Morrissey, who has played just over 300 career snaps. Barnett allowed 18 pressures last season over 444 pass-blocking reps and has graded out well as a run-blocker.

Linebacker is absolutely a position that the Colts should be double-dipping at. Hunter was a sound tackler last season, graded out well against the run, and got after the quarterback.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Colts start LB, WR, pass rusher in 7-round mock