3 Indianapolis Colts sleepers who could crash the roster conversation

Horseshoe Heroes · Jul 22, 2026 14:00 · 3 min read

3 Indianapolis Colts sleepers who could crash the roster conversation — Indianapolis Colts cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (29) celebrates | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Even with limited avenues to take the field, these three sleepers may have a better shot at making the Indianapolis Colts roster than some think.

The Indianapolis Colts are entering a make-or-break season, and there's no margin for error. Head coach Shane Steichen has done a decent job, but decent may not be enough for him to stay with the team.

As for Chris Ballard, the Colts' general manager's seat might be as hot as it's ever been, putting even more pressure on him to get every roster decision right. At this point, the slightest slip-up might cost him his job.

That's why the Colts will be extremely intentional and thorough with every guy they keep on their 53-man roster. Considering that, we'll take a look at three players who, despite being mostly overlooked, have a legitimate chance to crash the party.

3 Indianapolis Colts sleepers who might make the roster

Mekhi Blackmon

Mekhi Blackmon was far from a shutdown cornerback last season. He gave up 48 receptions on 75 targets (64 percent) for 527 yards and three touchdowns. He also missed 13.5 percent of his tackles and gave up 208 yards after the catch.

Nevertheless, he held opposing passers to an 86.9 passer rating, had two picks, seven passes defensed, and played in all 17 games, starting 11. He seems to be behind the recently signed Cam Taylor-Britt in the depth chart, but the Colts might not be able to afford to let him go.

For starters, Taylor-Britt might be familiar with Lou Anarumo's defensive system, but he's never been a shutdown guy. On top of that, Sauce Gardner is coming off an injury-riddled season, and Charvarius Ward has also struggled with injuries. They need as much depth as they can get at cornerback.

Caden Curry

Sixth-round picks are far from a lock to make the roster. They have to outplay veterans and beat the odds to prove that they're more than afterthoughts. Given the Colts' precarious pass-rush situation, that gives Caden Curry a major opportunity to enter the picture.

The Colts are giving Jaylahn Tuimoloau an opportunity to earn the starting spot, with Arden Key as his strongest competitor. They also have an intriguing and extremely raw project in George Gumbs Jr., who is unlikely to play much.

Given the lack of feasible options at the position, Curry might even beat newcomers like Key or Micheal Clemons for a roster spot. He must bulk up and be better in passing downs, but his ability to shut down the run might appeal to Anarumo.

Easton Stick

The Colts hope that Daniel Jones will finally break their quarterback curse, but they still need someone to be his backup. Barring a shocking turn of events, Anthony Richardson won't be on the team by Week 1.

That leaves Riley Leonard and Easton Stick as the lone candidates. For that alone, and considering that they signed him this offseason, it's hard to believe they won't keep the former fifth-round pick around.

While he's unlikely to play much — if at all — this season, the Colts could do a lot better for a third-string quarterback. If not, they can always get Philip Rivers on the phone and back on the field for another game or two, right?