5 key starters for Colts entering final year of contract in 2026

Several important members of this Indianapolis Colts team will be entering the final year of thier current deals.

The level of change we see take place next offseason will be tied to how the team performs in 2026. Another missed postseason appearance could lead to sweeping changes from the front office to the coaching staff and on the roster.

Here are five key players set to be free agents in 2027.

DT DeForest Buckner

Against both the run and the pass, Buckner has been a force in the middle of the Colts' defense since arriving to Indianapolis. Even in an injury-shortened 2025 season, Buckner ranked 24th among defensive tackles in pass rush win rate and 14th in PFF's run stop rate metric.

DT Grover Stewart

Stewart provides a high-end run-stuffing presence in the middle of the Colts' defense. With what Stewart is asked to do, he won't always fill the stat sheet, but his ability to generate push, eat up space, and take on blocks helps stifle the opposing run game, while creating opportunities for others.

RB Jonathan Taylor

Taylor is a three-time Pro Bowler and made one All-Pro team. He played in 13 games in 2024 and all 17 games last season, rushing for 1,431 yards and 1,585 yards, respectively, as one of the more productive backs in football each year.

OL Quenton Nelson

Of this group, bringing back Nelson should be the biggest priority for the Colts. Among all guards this season, Nelson ranked fourth in Pro Football Focus' pass-blocking efficiency and fourth in run-blocking grade. He is an eight-time Pro Bowler and has made six All-Pro teams in his career.

WR Josh Downs

Downs has been a steady and reliable target since entering the NFL, and has been particularly good at picking up first downs. With Michael Pittman now in Pittsburgh, more opportunities should be coming Downs' way this season.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Several important players for Colts set to be free agents in 2027