Indianapolis ColtsJT Tuimoloau had a rough rookie season, failing to carve out a rotational role while missing one game with an oblique injury and being a healthy scratch on three separate occasions. Tuimoloau totaled 17 tackles, one tackle for loss, 14 pressures, six quarterback hits, and zero sacks across 13 games and accounted for 215 defensive snaps.
With Kwity Paye now a member of the Las Vegas Raiders and Samson Ebukam with the Atlanta Falcons, JT Tuimoloau has a golden opportunity for a key rotational role in his second season. However, he is not expected to start alongside Laiatu Latu since the Colts signed Arden Key to a two-year, $20 million contract. Instead, Tuimoloau will likely compete against Micheal Clemons for the team’s top backup pass rushing role.
The Indianapolis Colts ex-2nd-round pick named the team’s biggest X factor
Nov 30, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) complains to an official in front of Indianapolis Colts defensive end JT Tuimoloau (91) during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
In a FOX Sports article, Ben Arthur identified each AFC team’s biggest X-factor heading into the 2026 NFL season. For the Colts, he named JT Tuimoloau, noting how the team didn’t make a major splash at EDGE rusher in free agency aside from signing Arden Key and Micheal Clemons. Arthur also added that Tuimoloau’s development will be “integral” for the defense, especially after losing key contributors in Kenny Moore II and Zaire Franklin.
“The Colts didn’t make any major moves to fill the hole at edge rusher opposite Laiatu Latu, so Tuimoloau’s development will be integral for an Indianapolis defense that lost major contributors in nickelback Kenny Moore II and linebacker Zaire Franklin,” Arthur said.
Lou Anarumo liked what he saw from Tuimoloau in his rookie season
“I’ve liked what we’ve seen from JT,” Lou Anarumo said in November, via Amanda Foster of the team’s website. “I think that the more he plays, the better he’ll be. Again, each week’s a little bit different. How many tackles do we have up? How many ends? But I’m pleased with his progress. Had a couple good rushes. Set a couple of good edges in the run game. Played physical. And it’s a different game from college. And JT is another guy that’s a hard worker, doing things the right way. We’re pleased with his progress for sure.”
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