The Indianapolis Colts were widely praised for their ability to land a first-round talent in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft by nabbing Georgia linebacker CJ Allen. However, after the Colts' 0-2 start and overtime loss against the Kansas City Chiefs, Allen remaining rooted to the bench is not going over well
Allen not only remained one step above a healthy scratch due to his lack of snaps, but he also had to watch Akeem Davis-Gaither and the rest of the defense get shredded by Patrick Mahomes. Kansas City's overtime victory made Mahomes look like his old MVP-level self just a few months after a serious leg injury, all while Allen was rotting on the bench.
If Lou Anarumo watches the film from this game and comes away with the thought that Allen does not need to be in the lineup immediately, that may be the most concerning problem facing the Colts.
Indianapolis Colts have no choice but to lean on CJ Allen after Week 2
While Davis-Gaither didn't play his best game against Kansas City, converted safety Jaylon Carlies is the bigger problem. After not recording any stats as a starting linebacker in the loss against Baltimore, Carlies was roasted and toasted so frequently that only two linebackers in the NFL have a lower grade in the eyes of Pro Football Focus.
This isn't Steichen placing an emphasis on veteran players over rookies, either. AJ Haulcy has been so effective that he's worked his way into the starting lineup despite his third-round stats, and Day 3 rookie Bryce Boettcher has seen time for a handful of snaps. What is it about Allen that makes Indy so allergic to playing him?
The Indianapolis Colts are out of reasons not to play CJ Allen
Allen did miss some time in training camp due to injuries, but that should not be an excuse for why he remains on ice. Wasn't part of the appeal in selecting Allen the idea that he could come right in and be an impact player after serving as the beating heart of a loaded Georgia defense? Instead, the Colts have relegated him to one step below a reserve role.
The Colts are 0-2 and are staring down the barrel of a season without a first-round pick at the end of the rainbow. However, the AFC South as a whole has a 1-7 record. There is a place for Indy to take advantage of their divisional rivals' mistakes, but not with Carlies at the heart of the defense.
Allen can't just sit on the bench and rot while the rest of the operation burns around them. With great speed in the open field, some strong testimonials from Kirby Smart, and a starter in front of him who has been the farthest thing from a standout performer, Allen's time in the sun may finally be coming.
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