Tucker: Colts' Mid-Round Draft Steal at DE

0:00On April 6, sports illustrators Justin Mello just named Western Michigan Defensive End, Nadame Tucker, the perfect mid-round draft pick for the Indianapolis Colts. With no first-round selection in Holsterville, General Manager Chris Ballard needs to nail those third-through-fifth rounders, especially at Defensive End. Tucker exploded last season with 14.5 sacks and 61 quarterback pressures, ranking ninth among Defensive Ends per PFF. He transferred from Houston, held his own at the senior bowl against top competition, and showed off speed and athleticism that Ballard loves and pass, rushers. Colts fans are buzzing because the team signed Arden Kee and Michael Clemens in free agency, but they still need a high-impact guy opposite Layatu, Blatu, to boost the edge rush. NFL.com, Scout LandZerline, praises Tucker's rush instincts, quickness and bend, calling his tape impressive enough for day three. But he notes Tucker must improve run defense against bigger tackles to stick.

1:03Ballard could turn Tucker into a steal, pairing his tools with Colts coaching for a fresh defensive spark heading into the 2026 draft.