Indianapolis Colts' general manager Chris Ballard has caught his fair share of flak during his time in charge, but he's finally been able to turn things around this season. He built a roster that is off to its best start since Peyton Manning was around, and the arrow seems to be pointed straight up for the Colts.
But dynasties are never finished being built. To carry this season's success into the future, the Colts have to continue to capitalize on their draft picks. After giving away two first-round selections in the Sauce Gardner trade, Ballard will be under pressure to maximize his picks later in the draft.
There's still plenty of time to go before the Colts are on the clock next April, but LSU linebacker Whit Weeks is already establishing himself as a candidate to be Ballard's first pick in 2026.
Whit Weeks could be Colts' perfect 2026 draft pick
There aren't many weaknesses left on the Colts' roster. Gardner has solved the glaring cornerback problem that threatened to dismantle the current season, and Daniel Jones' rise seems to have fixed the quarterback need. Still, Indianapolis could use some help at linebacker going forward.
Zaire Franklin and Germaine Pratt have been able to hold down the position this year, but with both players approaching the age of 30, neither is likely to be a long-term starter. Weeks could slot in as the Colts' linebacker of the future, eventually captaining a defense that could keep pace with Shane Steichen's offense.
Weeks is certainly undersized for a linebacker. His 6'2", 225-pound frame makes him a clear diversion from Ballard's typical traits-based preferences. But his athleticism and instincts more than make up for the lack of size.
The LSU linebacker is able to effectively work from sideline to sideline in run defense, weaving through blockers to shut down outside carries. He's just 20 years old, but he plays defense like an NFL veteran, diagnosing plays faster than most draft prospects could.
Weeks is more than competent in coverage, able to drop back in zone or stick with tight ends and running backs in man defense.
At this point in the season, a second-round linebacker may seem trivial. But when the playoffs come around, top opponents will find a way to pick on the Colts' weaknesses. If this unexpected success is going to last longer than a season, Ballard must find a long-term answer to his team's linebacker need.