The Indianapolis Colts have multiple needs to address in the 2025 NFL Draft, so they must approach their selection with both aggression and strategy. Holding the 14th overall pick, many mock drafts predict the Colts will choose a tight end—a position that has been a weakness for the team over the past decade. Fans are eager to see this need addressed, but the secondary also requires significant reinforcement. Fortunately, this draft class is deep in both tight ends and defensive backs, giving the Colts a strong chance to find a game-changing player in the first round. Here’s a look at several potential impact players who could fill a key void on the roster.
The Dark Horse First-Round Picks for the Colts
Tyler Warren.
Many mock drafts have projected Tyler Warren as the Colts’ selection, which makes perfect sense given that he is the top tight end in the draft and fills a major need for Indianapolis. According to NFL Draft Buzz, Warren ranks as the best tight end prospect and the 18th overall player. The 6-foot-6, 249-pound standout had a dominant 2024 season in the NCAA, leading the Big Ten in receptions and finishing second nationally in that category. He amassed 1,233 receiving yards, ranking second in the Big Ten, and recorded eight touchdowns, placing eighth.
Further solidifying his resume, Warren was awarded the 2024 John Mackey Award, which honors the best college tight end each year. Past recipients who have found success in the NFL include Brock Bowers, T.J. Hockenson, Mark Andrews, Hunter Henry, and Tyler Eifert. While winning the award doesn’t guarantee NFL success, it highlights Warren’s immense talent—exactly the kind of playmaker the Colts need at tight end.
Colston Loveland
With Tyler Warren widely regarded as the top tight end prospect, there is a possibility he could be off the board before the Colts pick at 14. That would make Colston Loveland the next-best option at the position. According to NFL Draft Buzz, Loveland ranks second among tight ends and 23rd overall.
Although similar in size to Warren, Loveland’s production differs significantly. He played six fewer games but still fell short of Warren’s impressive numbers. Loveland averaged 58 yards per game, 10 yards per reception, and recorded five touchdowns. While he may not match Warren’s elite talent, Loveland possesses skills that should translate well to the NFL. If the Colts are looking to add a dynamic tight end, he would be a valuable asset to their offense and a strong first-round consideration.
Malaki Starks
While tight end remains the Colts’ biggest priority, they also have a pressing need at safety—one they can address in this year’s draft. Malaki Starks has been projected as a potential first-round pick for Indianapolis in some mock drafts. He ranks as the second-best safety, sixth among defensive backs, and 26th overall.
A product of Georgia’s elite defense, Starks recorded 52 solo tackles in 2024, ranking sixth in the SEC. He was a Consensus All-American in 2023 and, despite a quieter 2024 season, still delivered solid production. Colts GM Chris Ballard has a strong track record of drafting defensive backs who transition well to the NFL, and Starks would likely be another excellent addition to the secondary.
