The Indianapolis Colts are clearly doing their homework on offensive tackle prospect Travis Burke from Memphis. According to a report from Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo, the team is scheduling a second meeting with Burke, this time a virtual session ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. This follow-up comes after their initial interview at the NFL Scouting Combine, signaling a significant level of interest in the collegiate lineman.
So, what has the Colts' front office coming back for another look? Burke brings a wealth of experience to the table, having logged nearly 3,000 offensive snaps over five seasons. His final year was particularly impressive, as he surrendered only three sacks and 13 quarterback pressures across 429 pass-blocking opportunities. He also earned high marks from Pro Football Focus for his work in the run game and has the valuable versatility of having played both left and right tackle.
Currently projected as a potential Day 3 selection, Burke is ranked 147th overall on the consensus big board. His athletic profile is intriguing, boasting an impressive unofficial Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.01 out of 10, which places him highly among offensive tackle prospects historically.
NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein's scouting report highlights a player with clear strengths and developmental areas. Zierlein praises Burke's "plus drive-blocking talent," "flexible hips and ankles," and an aggressive demeanor to finish blocks. However, he notes concerns about "short-area quickness" that could challenge him against NFL edge speed, making him somewhat scheme-dependent.
For the Colts, this due diligence makes perfect sense. While the starting offensive line appears set, building reliable depth in the trenches is a perpetual priority. A prospect like Burke, with his experience and mauler's mentality, could be a valuable addition to compete for a backup role and develop within their system. This second meeting suggests the Colts are seriously considering him as a potential fit for their roster's future.
