Indianapolis Colts assess CFL talent, working out four players including B.C. Lions DB Robert Carter Jr., signaling interest in alternative defensive options

The Indianapolis Colts worked out four CFL players on Tuesday, including B.C. Lions defensive back Robert Carter Jr., signaling their interest in exploring talent north of the border. Also attending were Hamilton Tiger-Cats linebacker Devin Veresuk, and Toronto Argonauts duo Aaron Casey (linebacker) and Derek Slywka (safety).

Carter, a 5’10”, 175-pound cornerback, had a standout rookie season in 2025, starting all 18 games for the Lions and recording 51 tackles, five interceptions, one forced fumble, and a defensive touchdown. He also contributed in the playoffs, including a 95-yard kickoff return touchdown in the West Semi-Final, and has previously worked out for the Denver Broncos. Before joining the CFL, Carter played at Robert Morris University and UVA-Wise, earning notable defensive and special teams statistics while establishing a reputation for highlight-reel plays, including a leaping one-handed interception widely regarded as the CFL play of the year.

Veresuk, the second overall pick in the 2025 CFL Draft, recorded 66 tackles, two sacks, two touchdowns, and an interception in his rookie season for Hamilton. The 24-year-old Windsor University product has now had workouts with five NFL teams, including the Saints and Broncos.

Casey, a 6’2”, 235-pound linebacker, contributed 27 tackles, six sacks, and a forced fumble as a rookie for Toronto after a standout career at Indiana University. This marks his first NFL workout of the offseason.

Slywka, Toronto’s nominee for Most Outstanding Rookie in 2025, tallied 46 tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two defensive touchdowns. The 6’3”, 215-pound safety previously attended Colts training camp in 2024, where he briefly converted to wide receiver. He is expected to have another workout with the Cincinnati Bengals.

The NFL’s official workout window opened November 17, with the signing period running from January 5 to February 10, 2026. CFL players can opt out of their contracts if offered an NFL deal, though their CFL team retains their rights.

Currently, the Colts sit third in the AFC South at 8-6 and will host the San Francisco 49ers on December 22. This wave of CFL workouts highlights the franchise’s strategy of scouting high-upside talent to bolster roster depth for the playoff push.