The Indianapolis Colts own the 14th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. In a perfect world, they would use that pick to draft Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.
However, the Colts aren’t the only team with Warren on their wish list. That means there’s a good chance that he’s not available at No. 14. Indianapolis could do whatever it takes to land Warren by trading up. But that’s probably not going to happen. Here are three first-round prospects who the Colts could take if Tyler Warren is off the board.
First-Round Draft Targets for the Indianapolis Colts Not Named Tyler Warren
Jihaad Campbell
The Colts undoubtedly need help at the linebacker position. Earlier this offseason, they lost Grant Stuard to the Detroit Lions. Then recently, fellow free agent E.J. Speed left and signed with the rival Houston Texans.
Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell could help out. In 2024, he had 117 combined tackles (12 for loss), five sacks, an interception, two passes defensed, and two forced fumbles. He was named First-Team All-SEC.
Campbell is perhaps the most versatile linebacker in this draft. Plus, he’s explosive and possesses excellent speed and physicality. He has the ability to collect tackles on inside runs and helps out in pass-rush opportunities off the edge.
Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin is coming off a Pro Bowl season, recording 173 tackles. The addition of Campbell would give Indy an outstanding duo to build around.
Colston Loveland
Again, Tyler Warren would be a great addition. However, he isn’t the only tight end the Colts could land in the first round. Michigan’s Colston Loveland should be available at No. 14.
Loveland recorded 582 yards and five touchdowns in 10 games last season. No, those aren’t exactly superstar numbers. But they’re impressive, considering Michigan had one of the worst passing offenses in the country.
NFL draft expert Todd McShay said this about Loveland:
“Colston Loveland’s got it. Even more impressive at the top of his stem. The shoulders, the body, the hips, the movement, the setting up DBs, it’s unique, man. Like when you watch tape over and over again, and all these guys are running drags and crossers and settling in zones, and then you pop in the tape of Loveland and he’s like running NFL routes, it’s really impressive to watch and it stands out.”
That sounds like he could be a great playmaker for the Colts. That’s exactly what they need.
Kenneth Grant
Speaking of Michigan Wolverines, the Colts could draft Loveland’s teammate, Kenneth Grant. The defensive tackle player played a big role on Michigan’s national championship squad during the 2023-24 season. That year, he had 3.5 sacks and a fumble recovery in 15 games. In 12 games last season, Grant recorded 32 tackles (seven for loss), three sacks, and five passes defended.
Indianapolis has drafted a defensive lineman or edge rusher in two of the last four drafts. With that said, it wouldn’t be shocking if the team drafted Grant this year. He could serve as a rotational player, teaming with Colts starters DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart.
Drafting a much-needed tight end makes the most sense for the Colts. But taking the six-foot-three, 340-pound Grant would certainly help their defensive line.
Main Image: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
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