Colts Draft A.J. Haulcy for Strong Safety

0:00On April 25, Indianapolis Colts just snagged LSU safety AJ Halsey with the 78th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. They're filling a big hole at strong safety after losing starter Nick Cross to the Washington Commanders in Free Agency. Halsey steps in as a prime rookie option over guys like Juan Ye Thomas and Hunter Wooler. Halsey kicked off a New Mexico as a true freshman, starting nine games and dropping 24 tackles on Fresno State in one outing. He bounced to Houston for all Big 12 honors as a starter, then dominated at LSU with 88 tackles and three picks to lead the Tigers last season. Over his last two college years, he racked up 162 tackles, eight interceptions, and 12 pass breakups. Sure, he had a 15.1% missed tackle rate, but the Colts defensive coordinator plans to polish that up quick. At five feet 11 and five eighths inches, 215 pounds, Halsey moves like a linebacker with elite ball skills.

1:01He's versatile too, logging 1,383 snapset free safety, 1,057 in the box, and 300. 69 in the slot across four years, starting all 48 games plus special teams work. This pick gives in the high upside depth right away, perfect for strong safety duties or dime linebacker spots. Halsey's durability and physicality could lock down that role and boost their secondary for years to come.