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The Indianapolis Colts' defensive line needs an infusion of fresh talent, and general manager Chris Ballard attempted to do that this past offseason to a degree. The question is whether the players that were added are actually good enough to help the team win games.
In one case, an undrafted free agent might help answer that question in the affirmative. Cameron Ball might be fourth on the depth chart at defensive tackle currently, but that could change quickly in training camp. Most of the players above him aren't exactly All-Pro quality.
Plus, while DeForest Buckner is and Grover Stewart stays remarkably healthy and is an excellent run-stopper, both are well above 30 years old and closer to the ends of their careers than the beginning. Ball could help replace them for several years.
Cameron Ball could rise up the Indianapolis Colts' depth chart quickly
One reason the Arkansas product was not taken in the 2026 NFL Draft might have been that his coaching at the college level did not prepare him well enough to become a pro. He has good size at 6'5" and 325 pounds, and he had adequate strength to play at the next level.
What he lacks is great technique. His ability to set an anchor against the run, coupled with a lack of versatile pass-rush moves, is probably more of what he was taught instead of a lack of physical ability. He appears to have good quickness for his size, and if he is coached at a higher level in Indy, his traits could translate to quick success.
His run defense at Arkansas was good. In Colts training camp, he should prove he can do that in the NFL, too. He didn't hit the quarterback much at Arkansas, however. If he can suddenly do that (or at least come close to the QB because he isn't going to tackle an Indy quarterback in practice) in camp, he should get a chance at reps during real games.
Besides Buckner and Stewart, Indianapolis's depth chart contains Colby Wooden, who was added as part of the trade that sent Zaire Franklin to the Green Bay Packers, and free agent signees Jerry Tillery and Derrick Nnadi. Acquiring one of those players was a risk, but adding all three should call even more into question Ballard's job security. None have been very good in their careers.
Cameron Ball could save the entire situation, though. He likely offers the Colts much more versatility than many draft pundits projected based on what they saw of him in college. He's strong enough to give a lot of reps in practice, and he's likely capable of being more disruptive in real games than many anticipated.
Even better for the team and player, defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has a highly regarded new defensive line coach, Marion Hobby. If any coach can get the most out of Ball in year one, it is the D-line new hire. The situation is a win-win for Indianapolis that could have an immediate payoff.
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This article was originally published on horseshoeheroes.com as Colts may have uncovered an undrafted gem ready to stun in camp.
