The Indianapolis Colts are looking to bounce back from a losing season just a year ago. However, heading into the upcoming campaign, a familiar issue is starting to resurface — injuries in the cornerback room are once again hurting their depth.
“Cornerback could turn out to be a bigger area of concern for them next season. Their secondary wasn't that good in 2024 to begin with. They finished 26th in passing yards surrendered and 19th in passing touchdowns allowed. Those aren't necessarily dreadful numbers, but Indianapolis signed Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum to bolster their backfield. The issue is that the additions won't have nearly as much of an impact following the injuries to Jaylon Jones and rookie Justin Walley,” Black and Teal’s Carlos Sanchez wrote.
The injury to Walley is especially significant — it’s season-ending. A third-round pick in this year’s draft, Walley was projected to be a starter in the Colts' secondary.
“Huge blow,” Colts head coach Shane Steichen said. “I think he was having a hell of a camp. His man coverage skills were great, he was making a ton of plays in practice too before it happened.”
With Walley out, the Colts not only lose a potential starter but also take a hit to their overall depth. One potential solution could be signing free agent Rasul Douglas, who would likely slot in as a starter right away.
“If Douglas is adamant about landing a starting role, he'd be a logical target for the Indianapolis Colts. Rookie third-round pick Justin Walley appeared on his way to earning a starting job in Indy before suffering a torn ACL in a joint practice with the Baltimore Ravens,” Bleacher Report’s Kevin Knox wrote.
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Douglas has built a solid NFL résumé — he’s a proven ballhawk with starting experience. Although the Miami Dolphins have been in discussions with him throughout the summer, Douglas has repeatedly declined their offers. The Colts, now desperate for a veteran presence who can contribute immediately, may find that Douglas checks every box for a late-offseason signing.