The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for a decisive 2026 season as they prepare for the NFL Draft without a first-round pick, a situation stemming from their trade for star cornerback Sauce Gardner. The move, made during the 2025 season, involved sending two future first-round picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell to the New York Jets, aiming to solidify the team's Super Bowl ambitions.
Why it matters: Gardner's acquisition was a bold statement by the Colts, who believed they were on the verge of a championship run. With the team missing the playoffs since 2020, this season is seen as a litmus test for the trade's long-term value.
Indianapolis traded its 2026 and 2027 first-round picks to the Jets for Gardner, indicating a commitment to immediate success.
The Colts ended the 2025 season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs after a promising start of 8-2.
Injuries to Gardner and quarterback Daniel Jones contributed to a disappointing finish, leading to scrutiny over the hefty price paid for the cornerback.
Driving the news: As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Colts are not scheduled to make their first selection until Friday in the second round. This absence of first-round picks has raised questions about the team's strategy moving forward.
Gardner played just three games for the Colts last season due to a calf injury, which he aggravated in Week 17, ending his campaign prematurely.
Now fully healthy, Gardner is optimistic about his role and the team's prospects in the upcoming season.
He expressed confidence that the Colts can at least reach the playoffs, stating, "I’m very confident in this team, in general, and the coaches and players and everything."
The big picture: Gardner, a two-time All-Pro, has high expectations for himself and the Colts. His leadership will be particularly important as the team navigates a leadership void following the trades of veterans Zaire Franklin and Michael Pittman Jr.
Gardner emphasized his readiness to take on a vocal leadership role, saying, "I’ve always wanted an opportunity like this, just to be able to come in from the beginning and lead the room, lead the defense."
His presence is seen as a potential game-changer for the Colts, who need a strong defensive anchor to compete in the tough AFC.
Gardner's previous success, including being named AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, adds to the expectations placed on him in Indianapolis.
What they're saying: Gardner's confidence shines through as he discusses his role and the team dynamics.
“I’m the first-round pick — I’m the first-round pick two times,” Gardner said, reinforcing his commitment to the team and his belief in their capabilities.
He noted, "We’re gonna get our money. We’re gonna do our thing on defense, especially, but the whole team is gonna do our thing. There’s no pressure."
Colts GM Chris Ballard acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating that there are no plans to trade back into the first round, making Gardner's performance even more imperative.
By the numbers: The Colts' trade for Gardner has had a substantial impact on their roster and future.
Gardner was selected fourth in the 2022 NFL Draft, and the Colts acquired him for a high price, giving up two first-round picks and a player.
His contract with the Jets was worth $120.4 million over four years, highlighting the high expectations surrounding his talent.
Since the trade, the Colts have not reached the playoffs, putting pressure on the front office to justify the cost of acquiring Gardner.
What's next: As the Colts prepare for the 2026 season, Gardner's health and performance will be under close scrutiny.
The team begins offseason workouts soon, where Gardner aims to establish himself as a leader both on and off the field.
With the draft approaching, how the Colts utilize their second-round pick to bolster their roster.
to see if Gardner can help turn around the franchise's fortunes and lead them back to the playoffs.
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