Late-round Colts draft pick locks up roster spot with standout practice

Peter Miller

Late-round Colts draft pick locks up roster spot with standout practice image

Chris Ballard has a knack for finding gems on Day 3 of the NFL Draft. 

The Colts general manager seems to have hit on another one this past April. Hunter Wohler, a seventh-rounder out of Wisconsin, was the final player selected in Indy’s draft class.

Despite that, Wohler has made his mark during training camp. He’s been a tone-setter with his aggressiveness and tenacity on defense

But Tuesday’s joint practice with the Ravens proved to be his best day of the summer. The safety/linebacker hybrid was making play after play, including two interceptions off Lamar Jackson and Cooper Rush. 

Wohler has been impressive enough so far to likely have secured a spot on the final 53-man roster. According to the Colts’ unofficial depth chart, he’s the backup strong safety behind Nick Cross. 

Not only is Wohler versatile and can play multiple positions, he has the right temperament and aggressiveness to bring the necessary energy as a tackler. 

His playmaking in practice proves he’s more than capable as a coverage defender, too. Has he done enough to earn a situation-specific role, such as third downs or two-minute drills? Possibly, but we won’t know for sure until Wohler is on the field. 

Wohler is going to get his first shot in a game-like scenario Thursday evening when the Colts take on the Ravens in Baltimore for their preseason opener.

Peter Miller

Peter Miller is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is pursuing a degree in sports media from Indiana University-Bloomington. He is a contributor for the Hoosier Network, covering the Indianapolis Colts and Hoosier athletics. He has experience as a credentialed reporter at the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament and is an NFL Draft enthusiast.