There are high expectations for the Indianapolis Colts' 53rd overall pick, linebacker CJ Allen, heading into the 2026 season. Now, he steps into his rookie year as a starter in Lou Anarumo's scheme, and with that, it will give him a big opportunity to take a crack at the 2026 Defensive Rookie of the Year accolade. NFL.com's Dan Parr lists Allen at eighth among the top 11 candidates for Defensive Rookie of the Year. As long as Allen's previous knee injury doesn't resurface and limit his movement, he could be a completely overlooked difference-maker from this year's defensive rookie class. For the Colts, they can only hope that they drafted the best linebacker, and Allen is ready to prove it.