​Between now and training camp, we will be going through the Indianapolis Colts’ full 90-man roster, previewing each player.Up next is rookie linebacker CJ Allen, who wears No. 53.Height: 6-0Weight: 230Age: 21NFL experience: RookieCollege: GeorgiaThe Colts selected Allen in the second round of the 2026 NFL draft. He was the 53rd overall pick.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAllen ranked among the best in run defense over both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, according to PFF’s metrics. He’s been a very sound tackler. In coverage, he allowed 10.6 yards per catch in 2025, with three pass breakups. Allen was named a first-team All-American last season.Over his three seasons at Georgia, Allen made 224 of his 242 tackle attempts, according to PFF. That’s a missed tackle rate of 7.4%. For some context, hanging around the 7% range, like Allen, makes him one of the more reliable tacklers in college football. Accomplishing that during a three-season span is even more impressive.The assumption is that Allen will be the Colts’ starting MIKE linebacker this season. This is an important role as this player is, in a way, the quarterback of the defense. He is tasked with relaying the play call to the rest of the defense, along with communicating any pre-snap adjustments. Allen did wear the green dot the last two seasons at Georgia, so he is familiar with this role.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement”Even though we’re not tackling, I think there is still a lot of communication that goes on with motions, pre-snap motion, making sure everyone’s one the same page, getting out of the right place,” Shane Steichen said of Allen during minicamp, via Locked on Colts. “So that communication at that spot is critical. and we’re getting a lot reps in that right now and that’ll continue into training camp. But been pleased with where he’s at right now.”This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts roster preview: CJ Allen stepping into important role in Year 1