As rosters must be trimmed to 53 players, Indianapolis will part ways with several veterans and younger players alike. One NFL observer believes the Colts could add a defensive back to bolster depth in the secondary, particularly behind the projected starting corners.
The starting corner group is expected to feature Charvarius Ward and Sauce Gardner, who will be tasked with covering top receiving threats. Following the team’s decision to waive Justin Blackmon, who started 11 games last season, the need for additional depth at cornerback is evident.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has identified cornerback Nick McCloud as a potential landing spot for Indianapolis. McCloud brings experience, having appeared in 63 games with 20 starts and contributed on special teams. While he has not been a high-end defender, his track record makes him a practical depth option for teams seeking experienced rotational depth in the secondary and on special teams.
McCloud entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021 and spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Bears, appearing in 15 games with four starts. He recorded 27 tackles and two interceptions that season. His career totals include 125 tackles, 12 passes defended, and one interception across stops with the Bears, 49ers, Giants, and Bengals. With Ward and Gardner returning from injury concerns from the 2025 campaign, McCloud could serve as a rotational presence, allowing the Colts to manage the starters’ workload more effectively.
Shane Steichen has stressed the importance of healthy, high-caliber players at cornerback. The Colts hope Ward and Gardner can stay on the field together for the full season to anchor the secondary. If either starter sits out a few reps to prevent injury or to manage a nagging issue—such as Ward’s concussion history or Gardner’s calf—the team could rely on McCloud or a similar veteran to step in and maintain defensive continuity.
Injuries to key defensive backs last season underscored the need for reliable depth. Steichen has highlighted the impact of having two elite corners available for one-on-one coverage and the significant boost this would provide to the defense. The Colts are likely to prioritize depth behind Ward and Gardner, ensuring they have capable substitutes ready to contribute as the season unfolds.
As the roster moves proceed, Indianapolis will weigh the best combination of talent, depth, and cap considerations. The goal is to enter Week 1 with a cohesive group that can compete at a high level while gradually integrating additional pieces as needed. The opportunity to add a veteran defender at the right price could pay dividends for a secondary that must gel quickly after an injury-plagued previous year.
Keep an eye on how the Colts balance efficiency and youth in the secondary as they finalize their 53-man roster. The organization’s plans for Week 1 will hinge on maintaining health and depth at cornerback, with McCloud and other veterans representing potential options to supplement Ward and Gardner in the back end of the defense.
