Colts acquire Mekhi Blackmon from Minnesota for a 2026 sixth-round pick, triggering an updated 53-man plan with Blackmon plugged into a seven-man cornerback corps. The move tightens Indy’s back end while preserving three QB, three RB, six WR, four TE, nine OL, and nine DL slots. Isaiah Land is among those released to fit the cap and rotation needs, with Buckner, Stewart, Adebawore, and Tuimoloau anchoring the defensive line. The shift emphasizes versatility in Lou Anarumo’s disguise-heavy scheme and signals bigger coverage upgrades for Indy this season.

Fantasy impact centers on Blackmon’s immediate snap potential and how Indy stacks depth behind Kenny Moore and JuJu Brents. The Colts’ pass defense could lean on crafted rotations, limiting predictable matchups and boosting opportunity for fantasy CBs and safeties in this system. For dynasty and DFS managers, monitor the CB rotation and snap counts early, as Blackmon’s role could grow quickly in a defense built on flexibility and disguise.

Colts preseason finale vs. Bengals offered crisp roster signals and a handful of standout performers. Will Mallory solidified TE4 duties ahead of Jelani Woods, while Luke Tenuta grabbed the final tackle spot at right tackle. Adetomiwa Adebawore dominated as the fourth DT, with Cam McGrone and Austin Ajiake earlier earning starting linebacker reps alongside Joe Bachie. Laquon Treadwell exploded for 116 yards on six catches, and Isaiah Land flashed pass-rush punch. Riley Leonard was efficient through the air, and the unit overall posted a clean, low-penalty game.

Defensively, run-stopping remains a work in progress when Buckner or Grover Stewart aren’t on the field, a reminder that the Colts will lean on a versatile, blitz-happy style under Anarumo. The depth pieces at cornerback and wide receiver are still sorting out roster spots as the Colts weigh seven-defensive-back looks or heavy coverage schemes. Fantasy angles tilt toward Mallory, Treadwell, Land, and the DL/LB depth, with a keen eye on how the 53-man decisions shake out for Week 1.