As expected, the Indianapolis Colts added plenty of firepower to their defense in the 2026 NFL Draft. The playmakers' department, however, could still use a couple of additions, especially at wide receiver.
Losing Michael Pittman Jr. could take a huge toll on the passing game. Alec Pierce has been a big-play specialist and not a possession receiver for most of his career, and Josh Downs is more suited for a slot role.
That's why, even with newcomers Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Deion Burks in town, general manager Chris Ballard should get Deebo Samuel's agent on the phone. He's the most dynamic weapon still available in free agency, and this team can't afford to get complacent.
Deebo Samuel makes perfect sense for the Indianapolis Colts
Samuel isn't the dual-threat superstar he was five years ago, but he can still perform at a high level. Spotrac projects his market value at $15.7 million per year, and with $26 million in available cap space, there's plenty of wiggle room to accommodate his contract and still sign the rookies.
Despite some tough luck at quarterback, Samuel still had a fairly decent season with the Washington Commanders. He hauled in 72 receptions on 99 targets for 727 yards and five touchdowns, adding 17 carries for 75 yards and another score. Given that Jayden Daniels missed most of the season with multiple injuries, that's not half bad for the 29-year-old.
He also looked slimmer and faster after playing a bit above his weight over the past couple of seasons. More importantly, that, plus taking fewer snaps out of the backfield, helped him stay healthy and suit up for all but one game.
The Colts already have a true superstar at running back. They don't need Samuel to log five carries a game, but having him out there will force opposing defenses to stay honest, knowing that he's always dangerous in motion and that he can be lethal in jet sweeps.
He's still a YAC specialist, logging 6.5 yards after the catch per reception and 2.6 yards after contact as a running back, and having him roaming all around the field should only open plenty of looks for Alec Pierce as the ultimate deep-play threat.
Shane Steichen has a creative offensive mind, and he should know how to make the most of a dynamic playmaker who can line up almost everywhere. Even if his best years are far behind him, he can still be the difference between an early playoff exit and a Super Bowl run.
The Colts could've probably gone the distance with a healthy Daniel Jones last season. That's not likely the case with fewer weapons in year two, and with Pittman no longer in the building, Samuel is this team's best bet to still be in contention in February.
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