The Indianapolis Colts don't seem to need more cornerbacks. The team signed Charvarius Ward last offseason, traded for Sauce Gardner during the season, drafted Justin Walley in 2025, and had Kenny Moore throughout it all. Yet, Indy is also looking at players such as Charles Demmings in the NFL draft.
Indianapolis reportedly will visit with the Stephen F. Austin corner before the draft, and many might simply ask, "Why?" Not only did Indy have the four cornerbacks mentioned above entering the offseason, but general manager Chris Ballard also signed Cam Taylor-Britt and re-signed Cameron Mitchell.
If anything, the team might have too many CBs, so adding more doesn't seem logical, especially when the team has other, more pressing needs to address. That includes edge rusher, defensive tackle, inside linebacker, and maybe the interior of the offensive line. Ballard also needs to add depth at wide receiver and running back.
Indianapolis Colts reportedly meeting with cornerback Charles Demmings ahead of 2026 draft
Indianapolis doesn't have a first-round selection, of course, as the pick was traded to the New York Jets as part of the deal that brought Gardner to the Colts. Indu doesn't have a first-round pick next year either for the same reason. This emphasizes getting things right in 2026 for players and coaches (and the GM) to keep their jobs after next season.
Picking up a player like Demmings doesn't appear to move the needle much. What can he bring to the team that it doesn't already have, assuming the key cornerbacks stay healthy?
He is 6'1" and 195 pounds with good speed. He has run a 4.41 40-yard dash and had a great vertical jump of 42 inches. In other words, he has the raw athleticism needed to have a chance at being successful in the NFL.
The issue is that he played at an FCS school and will have to acclimate quickly to the NFL to secure a roster spot in a crowded cornerback room. He also hasn't shown he can be effective against the run and needs to add significant strength to do so. He might be a candidate to sit out most of a year before he can truly help the Indianapolis Colts win games.
That is assuming the team even needs him. Gardner is only in his mid-20s. Ward is approaching 30, but should have at least a couple of seasons left to play at a high level, assuming he doesn't suffer more concussions. Walley could replace Moore. If Demmings is available for Indy to take on Day 3, Ballard should pass. The team has other concerns.