Could This UDFA Defender Make the Colts 53-Man Roster?

Solomon DeShields, who was signed by the Colts as an undrafted free agent (UDFA), could make the team's 53-man roster.

Solomon DeShields could make the Indianapolis Colts’ 53-man roster. Who in the world is that? That’s the question you’re probably asking yourself.

DeShields, a linebacker out of Texas A&M, recently signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent (UDFA). No, he never heard his name called during the 2025 NFL Draft. But that doesn’t mean he can’t make Indy’s roster this year.

The Colts had a solid draft. They selected eight players: Tyler Warren, J.T. Tuimoloau, Justin Walley, Jalen Travis, D.J. Giddens, Riley Leonard, Tim Smith, and Hunter Wohler.

More than likely, all of those players won’t make the Colts roster. It’ll be interesting, though, to see if DeShields will.

Could UDFA Solomon DeShields Make the Colts’ 53-Man Roster?

His Career

Solomon DeShields attended Millville High School in Millville, New Jersey. Participating in football, basketball, and track & field, he was considered one of the nation’s top athletes. He was also the No. 18 overall prospect in New Jersey.

DeShields then began his college career at Pittsburgh. He played 42 games during his four-year career with the Panthers. DeShields appeared in all 13 contests during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. In 2023, he made 11 starts, recording 58 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks, and a pass breakup.

DeShields later transferred to Texas A&M. He played 12 games last season, producing 23 combined tackles (two for loss) and 0.5 sacks. He made three tackles against USC in the Las Vegas Bowl.

Notable Undrafted Players

Again, just because you go undrafted doesn’t mean it’s impossible to make a team’s 53-man roster. Over the years, the Colts have seen several undrafted players go on to have successful careers.

Adam Vinatieri is a great example. It’s hard to believe that he wasn’t drafted. He’s undoubtedly the greatest kicker of all time. Vinatieri, of course, began his amazing NFL career with the New England Patriots. After winning three Super Bowls in New England, he signed with the Colts in 2006. The former South Dakota State star would help Indianapolis win Super Bowl XLI against the Chicago Bears. Vinatieri holds a bunch of NFL records, such as most career points scored and most career field goals made.

Jeff Saturday is another undrafted player who had a legendary career in Indy. He signed with the Colts as an UDFA in 1999. He eventually teamed with Peyton Manning to form one of the greatest quarterback-center duos of all time. Dominic Rhodes, Gary Brackett, and current Colt Kenny Moore II are also notable examples.

Colts Need Linebacker Depth

This offseason, the Colts lost linebackers E.J. Speed and Grant Stuard in free agency. Speed signed with the Houston Texans while Stuard went to the Detroit Lions. The Colts were expected to take a linebacker early in the 2025 draft. However, they waited until the seventh round as they selected Hunter Wohler. The former Wisconsin star will likely move from safety to linebacker.

It appears that the Colts are looking to start Zaire Franklin and second-year player Jaylon Carlies at linebacker. DeShields will compete with Wohler and others for a backup spot. He can earn a spot on the 53-man roster if he has an impressive training camp. Don’t be surprised if he finds a way to get the job done.