The safety position is being less valued every year, it seems, especially when considering how highly safeties go in the NFL Draft.
Still, AJ Haulcy might be among the top safeties in this year’s draft class. After seeing plenty of playing time at New Mexico and earning all-conference honors there, he showcased what he could do against SEC competition while at LSU.
He’s an enforcer in the secondary, and his combination of physicality and instincts will surely help his new NFL team.
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Where Did AJ Haulcy Go In The NFL Draft?
Haulcy went to the Indianapolis Colts with the 78th overall pick, in the third round, of the 2026 NFL Draft.
AJ Haulcy’s 40 Time & NFL Combine Results
Haulcy ran the 40-yard dash in 4.52 seconds, which ranked 12th out of 14 safeties who participated in that drill at the NFL Combine.
Haulcy was measured at 6 feet tall and 215 pounds at the NFL Combine.
AJ Haulcy Stats & Highlights
Haulcy started his career strong at New Mexico, making the All-Mountain West second team. As a freshman in 2022, he tallied 87 tackles, three tackles for loss, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and three pass breakups.
Then Haulcy returned to his hometown to play at a former Group of Five program, Houston. As a sophomore, he totaled 98 tackles and a TFL with one forced fumble and four pass breakups.
He made the All-Big 12 first team as a junior, recording 74 tackles, eight pass breakups, and five interceptions.
Haulcy finally became an All-American after he transferred to LSU in 2025. He chalked up 88 tackles, four pass breakups, and three interceptions.
Where Is AJ Haulcy From?
Haulcy is from Houston, Texas. He went to Fort Bend Marshall High School.
How Old Is AJ Haulcy?
Haulcy is 22 years old.
AJ Haulcy NFL Draft Profile & Comparison
My NFL comparison for AJ Haulcy is Brian Branch from the Detroit Lions. This isn’t to say he’ll have the same career trajectory. They have similar builds and both are known for their physicality at the safety position.
Among FBS safeties who played at least 470 snaps last year, Haulcy ranked 12th in Pro Football Focus’ grades for overall defense and was tied for ninth for coverage.
Haulcy allowed 23 receptions on 37 targets for 265 yards with just one touchdown while intercepting three passes. He has great instincts when the ball is in the air. He’s excellent at reading offenses and predicting what they’re going to do before the snap.
Haulcy’s physicality really jumps out to me when watching his tape. He’s a solid tackler. He’s not afraid to lower his shoulder and deliver a hit. He also has solid closing speed when tracking down ball carriers.



