Colts rank among top NFL teams in defensive salary cap spending

As the 2026 NFL season begins, the Indianapolis Colts are positioned as one of the largest spenders on defense, with $146.342 million allocated. This ranks them 11th in the league, significantly behind the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lead at $195.452 million. Five of their nine highest cap hits for 2026 are on defensive players, with defensive tackle DeForest Buckner having the largest at $26.6 million. The Colts are also expected to integrate several new starters on defense, many of whom have limited NFL experience, making performance from their highest-paid players critical for the unit's success.

• 3:36 PMYahoo Sports — Colts enter 2026 among biggest salary cap spenders on defense