The Indianapolis Colts are ramping up their preparations for the 2025 NFL Draft, sending their newly hired defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo to scout potential prospects at UCLA's Pro Day. This move indicates a strong interest in specific players, notably linebacker Carson Schwesinger, a standout from UCLA who has gained considerable attention despite recently rehabbing an injury.
On March 20, 2025, Anarumo’s attendance at Pro Day was noteworthy, reflecting the Colts’ approach to scouting that often involves sending high-profile staff beyond the usual area scouts to evaluate talent. Traditionally, the team sends positional coaches, coordinators, or even head coach Shane Steichen to key events to cover players of significant interest. Last year, for instance, Steichen and Reggie Wayne were both present at Texas' Pro Day, where they eventually selected Adonai Mitchell in the second round. This history suggests there’s a player at UCLA, presumably Schwesinger, that the Colts are keen on drafting as they fill gaps on their roster.
Schwesinger had an impressive year with 136 total tackles, leading the Big 10 with 90 solo tackles during the past season. His performance, however, has been hampered by injury, and though he didn’t participate in the drills at the Pro Day, he was present and likely engaged with team representatives. He is scheduled for a private workout with interested NFL teams on April 2, 2025. Schwesinger's versatility and strong stats — earning a 90.0 pass rush grade and a mere 7.6% missed tackle rate according to Pro Football Focus — position him as a valuable asset for the Colts.
The Colts find themselves in a pivotal offseason where needs have evolved, especially in the linebacker position. With E.J. Speed remaining unsigned and Grant Stuard having signed elsewhere, they face a significant lack of depth at linebacker, making Schwesinger a prime candidate for selection if he fits into their plans during the draft. The added pressure of needing a reliable linebacker who can contribute instantly looms large given the current roster gaps.
In addition to linebacker, the Colts have notable needs at tight end, a position that ranks as their top priority for the draft. After a season where their tight ends combined for a mere 39 catches, losing Kylen Granson and seeing veteran Mo Alie-Cox remain unsigned has pushed tight end to the forefront of their draft strategy. Analysts suggest that the Colts could target reliable options such as Penn State's Tyler Warren or Michigan's Colston Loveland in the first round, bolstering their offensive capability as part of a revamped lineup.
This transformation in team strategy is further underscored by the Colts' aggressive approach to free agency. The franchise has signed several key free agents, including cornerback Charvarius Ward, safety Camryn Bynum, and quarterback Daniel Jones, while allowing five of their own players to leave the organization. General manager Chris Ballard has shown a willingness to pursue external talent to upgrade the team, reflecting their shift toward immediate performance goals rather than only focusing on developing in-house talent.
Past successes in the draft support the Colts' strategy of looking for linebacker gems. With previous picks like Shaquille Leonard, Anthony Walker, Bobby Okereke, and Zaire Franklin, the Colts’ draft history showcases a talent for identifying players who can emerge as notable starters, albeit at different stages in their careers. The coaching staff appears to have confidence in their ability to continue this trend, even as they explore later-round options.
As the Colts navigate potential draft candidates, they also recently released defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, who left for the Chicago Bears, leaving a gap in the defensive line. Odeyingbo played a crucial role, registering three sacks last season and leading the team in pressures and quarterback hits. The Colts will need to assess replacements, possibly using upcoming draft picks to strengthen their defensive front.
Notably, they have also shifted around players by releasing defensive tackle Raekwon Davis and signing Neville Gallimore. The Colts' defensive unit now looks to stabilize with additional draft picks aimed at enhancing depth, especially considering Taven Bryan's uncertain status as a free agent following minimal contributions last season. The return of defensive end Samson Ebukam, who is recovering from an Achilles injury, will also be vital for their defensive strategy moving forward.
On the offensive line front, Ballard anticipates bolstering the unit that has already seen departures. With the exit of right guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly to Minnesota, the Colts may target versatile offensive linemen in the draft. This strategy mirrors their previous successful selections, which included tackle Matt Goncalves and center Tanor Bortolini in the later rounds of the 2024 draft.
The Colts are not done in free agency either, recently signing running back Khalil Herbert to back up Jonathan Taylor. While Herbert offers promising support, indications suggest further improvements in their running game are necessary. With a deep pool of running back talent in the upcoming draft, the Colts may well identify hidden gems that can enhance their backfield capabilities.
This blend of strategic scouting, free agency maneuvers, and draft preparation sets up what should be a thrilling offseason for the Indianapolis Colts as they strive to reinvent their roster and tackle the challenges of the 2025 NFL Draft with inspiration and commitment to building a competitive team.
