Indianapolis Colts bet on basketball background, sign Notre Dame’s Carson Towt as tight end prospect

The Indianapolis Colts are taking another swing on a high-upside basketball convert, signing former Notre Dame forward Carson Towt as a tight end prospect for the 2026 NFL season.

From the hardwood to the gridiron
Towt wrapped up his basketball career with the Fighting Irish just last week, having led the team in rebounding with 9.0 boards per game. Standing 6’8” and 250 pounds, the forward used his size and athleticism to excel in the paint, traits the Colts believe can translate to the tight end position. Though he has no formal football experience at any level, his agility, hands, and physicality on the court made him an intriguing project for NFL scouts.

A proven development model
This isn’t the first time the Colts have taken a chance on a basketball player. They famously developed former VCU standout Mo Alie-Cox into a reliable NFL tight end—now entering his ninth season with the team. Towt will look to follow a similar path, using his body control, leaping ability, and toughness in traffic to potentially contribute as a receiver and red-zone threat.

What’s next
The transition won’t be easy. Towt will need to learn everything from route running and playbook comprehension to blocking technique and football-specific footwork. But his size, athletic foundation, and experience competing in the ACC provide a compelling starting point. If he can develop quickly during offseason programs and training camp, he could compete for a practice squad spot or even a role as a developmental tight end.

It’s a longshot—but for the Colts, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move that has paid off before. All eyes will be on Towt this summer as he begins his unlikely journey from college hoops to the NFL.