Despite facing some elite running backs last season, the Indianapolis Colts' defense still held the opposition to just 101.9 rushing yards per game, the seventh-best mark in the entire league. Now, it might not be that simple.
The Tennessee Titans will be on the clock with the No. 4 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. And even though they may not have the strongest offensive line yet, FanSided's NFL Draft Big Board has them taking Notre Dame star running back Jeremiyah Love.
In a time when running backs are rarely top 10 picks, let alone top 5 selections, that should say everything there is to know about the 20-year-old ball-carrier, and facing him twice a year is certainly a headache for defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
The Indianapolis Colts don't want Jeremiyah Love in the division
Jeremiyah Love is a do-it-all, true bellcow running back whose game will translate to the pros immediately. He ran for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 6.9 yards per carry and averaged 114.3 rushing yards per game for the Fighting Irish. Notably, he also had 27 receptions on 34 targets for 280 yards and three scores.
He's a willing blocker for the passing game, and his elusiveness and ability to hurdle defenders are mesmerizing to watch. Love can hurt defenses between the tackles, and that's especially an issue for a Colts team that's extremely thin at linebacker after a somewhat disappointing offseason.
The Titans were one of the most aggressive teams in the league this offseason. Given the way they've reshaped their roster, it's hard to believe the Colts will be able to put up 41 and 38 points against them as they did during Cam Ward's rookie season, and their offense should also be much more proficient with Brian Daboll leading the way.
The Colts don't have a first-round pick in this draft because of the Sauce Gardner trade, and while they will most likely target a defensive tackle or linebacker with the No. 47 pick, whoever they get might not make an impact right away.
Watching the rest of the division get stronger while you stay put might not be the wisest approach for general manager Chris Ballard. And even though there's nothing he can do to stop the Titans from taking Love with the No. 4 pick, his team can only hope that his otherworldly tape and physical skills don't translate to the pros as well as promised.
The Colts will have to deal with him twice a year for years to come, and, given their schedule, they'll also measure themselves against the likes of Derrick Henry, Quinshon Judkins, Javonte Williams, Saquon Barkley, De'Von Achane, and Kenneth Walker III next season. Not ideal.
Add us as a preferred source on Google