With OTAs getting rolling around the NFL, teams are really starting their preparations for the 2026 season. The first step of that process was rebuilding rosters through the draft and free agency, and now it’s time to actually focus on the field.
For the most part, teams have a good idea of what their rosters will look like, but the upcoming work on the field will let them know if they need to make any more additions ahead of training camp.
One analyst thinks the Indianapolis Colts should make one more significant addition for the 2026 season. In a recent ESPN piece, Matt Bowen named the best team fits for 14 of the top remaining free agents. Indianapolis was highlighted as the best landing spot for veteran wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
Indianapolis Colts named best landing spot for Deebo Samuel
Bowen took into account how a player fits into a team’s scheme, if they will be able to immediately contribute, and if the team can afford to add them. Going through that checklist, the analyst landed on Indianapolis as the best destination for Samuel.
Acknowledging the offseason addition of veteran wideout Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Bowen still argues Indy should sign Samuel because of his unique skill set. The analyst explained that he will be a nice compliment to Alec Pierce and Josh Downs, and could be fed easy touches as he works to get the full playbook down.
With Samuel’s play-making ability once the ball is in his hands, those easy touches could result in his biggest impact on the Colts offense, as Bowen says he will be another really good catch-and-run target for Daniel Jones.
"Steichen can create a long runway for Samuel to get up to speed on crossers, while building in manufactured touches on screens and fly sweeps. Signing Samuel, who caught 72 passes last season in Washington, would also give quarterback Daniel Jones another catch-and-run target alongside tight end Tyler Warren. Both Samuel and Warren ranked in the top 15 of yards after the catch last season."Matt Bowen (ESPN)
Samuel played the majority of his career with the San Francisco 49ers, where he dominated as a versatile playmaker from 2019 to 2024.
Last offseason, he was traded to the Washington Commanders, and he played 16 games, recording 72 receptions for 727 yards and five touchdowns, while also rushing for 75 yards and an additional score. Samuel was also big on special teams, returning 15 kicks for 452 yards.
Now, he remains a free agent as the offseason progresses, and the Colts could consider adding him. Samuel would definitely be a fun addition for Shane Steichen to get creative with, so Indianapolis should explore adding him.
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