Indianapolis, December 6, 2025
In a recent mock draft, the Indianapolis Colts aim to improve their team by selecting key players including edge rusher Derrick Moore from Michigan and wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane from Southern California. With both a focus on defense and offense, these picks signal a forward-thinking strategy to bolster the team’s capabilities for upcoming seasons.
Indianapolis Colts’ 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Strengthening the Roster
Indianapolis, IN – In a recent 2026 NFL three-round mock draft, the Indianapolis Colts have focused on enhancing their roster by selecting a dynamic edge rusher and a promising quarterback to develop for the future.
Key Selections in the 2026 Mock Draft
Second Round, No. 54 Overall Pick: Derrick Moore, Edge Rusher, Michigan
The Colts have some interesting calls to make in free agency. While quarterback Daniel Jones is understandably the biggest determination to be made, they also have to decide on right tackle Braden Smith, wide receiver Alec Pierce and a trio of edge rushers, including former first-round pick Kwity Paye. If Colts general manager Chris Ballard opts for a new thoroughbred off the edge, he might find Moore an intriguing fit. The 6-foot-3, 260-pound senior has steadily improved his production over four years in Ann Arbor, currently leading the Wolverines in both tackles for loss (10) and sacks (9.5). He isn’t the biggest or fastest edge rusher in this class, but he attacks with nuance and violence and has produced from both sides.
Third Round, No. 85 Overall Pick (from Dallas Cowboys): Ja’Kobi Lane, Wide Receiver, Southern California
As mentioned previously, the Colts face an interesting decision with speedy big-play receiver Alec Pierce. The 6-foot-3, 209-pounder currently leads the NFL with an average of 20.9 yards per reception — and that is no fluke; he did the same a year ago with a significantly higher per-catch average (22.3) and career-high seven touchdown receptions, despite worse quarterback play. Pierce is a good schematic fit in the Colts’ run-heavy offense, as his size and speed make him an ideal downfield target on play-action. Other teams might feel the same way, however, creating more of a bidding war for his services than Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen might like. Lane (6-4, 200 pounds) has a similar playing style, showing very good build-up speed and tracking skills. Don’t let his relatively pedestrian 13.8 yards-per-catch career average fool you; like Pierce, Lane’s super-power lies with his efficiency.
Background Context
The Colts have been proactive in their draft strategies, aiming to bolster both their defensive and offensive units. In the 2025 NFL Draft, they selected tight end Tyler Warren from Penn State, who has been a significant contributor to the team’s passing game. Additionally, the Colts have been active in free agency, making strategic moves to strengthen their roster for the upcoming seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What positions did the Colts focus on in the 2026 mock draft?
The Colts concentrated on enhancing their defense by selecting an edge rusher and bolstering their offense with a wide receiver.
Who is Derrick Moore, and why was he chosen by the Colts?
Derrick Moore is a 6-foot-3, 260-pound edge rusher from Michigan, known for his consistent improvement and leadership in tackles for loss and sacks over four years. His versatility and aggressive playstyle make him a valuable addition to the Colts’ defense.
What can be expected from Ja’Kobi Lane as a wide receiver?
Ja’Kobi Lane is a 6-foot-4, 200-pound wide receiver from Southern California, recognized for his build-up speed and tracking skills. His efficiency and ability to make significant plays downfield align well with the Colts’ offensive strategy.
Key Features of the 2026 Mock Draft Selections
| Player | Position | College | Pick | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Derrick Moore | Edge Rusher | Michigan | 2nd Round, No. 54 Overall | Versatile, aggressive playstyle, consistent improvement in tackles for loss and sacks |
| Ja’Kobi Lane | Wide Receiver | Southern California | 3rd Round, No. 85 Overall (from Dallas Cowboys) | Build-up speed, tracking skills, efficiency in making significant plays downfield |
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