Trending Now - Colts Boost Defense With CJ Allen's Arrival
WHO:
Heavy NFL - The Indianapolis Colts drafted Oregon Ducks linebacker Bryce Boettcher in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
colts.com - CJ Allen described himself as a "true linebacker" who aims to improve the Colts' defense.
colts.com - The Indianapolis Colts selected linebacker CJ Allen.
colts.com - CJ Allen is from the University of Georgia.
colts.com - General manager Chris Ballard made the selection.
colts.com - Zaire Franklin was traded to the Green Bay Packers.
WHAT:
Heavy NFL - Bryce Boettcher was selected in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, contributing to the Colts' defense.
colts.com - Allen stated, "Good is not good enough," emphasizing the high standards set by his former coach Kirby Smart at Georgia.
colts.com - Allen was the No. 5 linebacker in the 2023 recruiting class.
colts.com - CJ Allen was selected at pick No. 53 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
colts.com - Allen totaled 205 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss (TFLs), 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception during his collegiate career.
colts.com - In 2025, Allen was named a First Team All-American and First Team All-SEC.
colts.com - The Colts traded back in the second round, acquiring picks Nos. 53, 135, and 237 from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for picks Nos. 47 and 249.
WHERE:
colts.com - CJ Allen played college football at the University of Georgia.
colts.com - The Indianapolis Colts are based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
WHEN:
Heavy NFL - The Colts selected Bryce Boettcher during the 2026 NFL Draft.
colts.com - Allen committed to the University of Georgia in June 2022.
colts.com - CJ Allen was selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
colts.com - Allen committed to the University of Georgia in June 2022.
colts.com - Allen underwent left meniscus clean-up surgery in November 2025.
WHY:
colts.com - Allen expressed his desire to fill the opening left by Zaire Franklin's trade to the Green Bay Packers.
colts.com - The Colts needed to fill an opening at linebacker after trading Zaire Franklin.
HOW:
colts.com - Allen's approach to playing linebacker focuses on running, hitting, and getting to the ball.
colts.com - Allen described his approach as focusing on running, hitting, and getting to the ball.
(UPDATED April 25, 2026 19:16 UTC)
The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant addition to their defense by drafting Oregon Ducks linebacker Bryce Boettcher in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This selection highlights the Colts' commitment to strengthening their roster. Bryce Boettcher is expected to bring valuable skills to the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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(UPDATED April 25, 2026 07:19 UTC)
CJ Allen, who was the No. 5 linebacker in the 2023 recruiting class, described himself as a "true linebacker" dedicated to enhancing the Colts' defense. He emphasized that "good is not good enough," a standard he learned from his former coach Kirby Smart at Georgia, where he committed in June 20th22. Allen is eager to step into the role left by Zaire Franklin's trade to the Green Bay Packers, focusing on running, hitting, and getting to the ball.
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(UPDATED April 25, 2026 05:35 UTC)
In a strategic move during the 2026 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected linebacker CJ Allen with the 53rd pick, filling a crucial opening after trading Zaire Franklin to the Green Bay Packers. Allen, who played college football at the University of Georgia, had an impressive collegiate career with 205 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, earning First Team All-American and First Team All-SEC honors in 2025. General manager Chris Ballard noted that Allen's approach emphasizes running, hitting, and getting to the ball, showcasing the skills that made him a top choice for the Colts.