In the sixth round of the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end Caden Curry. Let’s take a closer look at Curry’s game with what a few draft experts had to say in their final scouting reports.
Curry saw a big jump in production last season, posting 46 pressures and 12 sacks, according to PFF. He was also one of PFF’s highest graded run defenders at this position group.
Curry also joins the Colts,with ample special teams experience at the college level, playing over 600 career snaps over four seasons.
“He’s a really good, hard-playing football player,” said GM Chris Ballard about Curry.
Here is what a few draft analysts think of Curry’s game.
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
“The tape doesn’t quite match the production, but with only one season as a starter, Curry’s play should continue to improve. He has good size and can play edge in even or odd fronts. He uses lower-body power to help access the pocket but his rush lacks explosiveness and a healthy set of go-to moves to open the protection up. He can rush from the interior, allowing teams to get more speed on the field. He’s built to hold up at the point but would benefit from an uptick in aggression to better command both his positioning and the block. Curry is athletic dropping into space and fits the mold of a stand-up edge with special-teams value.”
Pro Football Network
“Curry will likely never be an NFL starter, but he has functionality as an alignment-versatile rotational presence with high-quality run defense, a reliable leverage profile, and motorized playmaking in pursuit.”
Dane Brugler, The Athletic
“Curry is a sawed-off, face-up pass rusher with a basic approach, but he plays alert and physical, and affects the game with his white-hot motor (his best attribute). He projects as a versatile NFL backup who can be moved up and down the line of scrimmage — reminiscent of John Simon, another former Ohio State edge defender.”
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Scouting reports for new Colts’ DE Caden Curry