After examining what the Indianapolis Colts' starting offense would look like prior to the 2026 NFL draft starting, let's now dive into the defensive side of the ball.

As mentioned in the first article of this two-part series, with seven draft picks, undrafted free agency, and the potential for a veteran addition or two after the draft, the roster as it is constructed today will not be what we see when the Colts take the practice field in July for training camp.

However, what this exercise does prior to the draft is highlight where some of the Colts' more pressing roster needs may lie.

Defensive line: Laiatu Latu, DeForest Buckner, Grover Stewart, Arden Key

Ballard believes that the defensive line depth is one of the most improved aspects of this Colts' roster this offseason. That said, adding to the defensive end position should still be a priority as the Colts search for more consistency. JT Tuimoloau or an incoming rookie could potentially compete for starting snaps, but for now, Key gets the nod, given his experience.

Ajiake was often working with the second team defense last summer. That, along with Jaylon Carlies still being a younger player short on experience, puts him in the starting spot for now. That said, the Colts need to add real competition for that playing time.

Cornerback: Sauce Gardner, Justin Walley, Charvarius Ward

I would guess that, in part, the Colts are willing to move on from Kenny Moore, who has requested a trade, because of their confidence and belief in Walley stepping in at the nickel.

The starting spot next to Bynum is up for grabs. Owens, Hunter Wohler, and Juanyeh Thomas are all expected to compete for those snaps. An addition in the draft could still be made as well. Of those three, Owens has the most experience, so I'll put him next to Bynum for now -- although the Colts are quite bullish on Wohler -- but this playing time is very much up in the air.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: What does Colts starting defense look like today?