Entering the third year of the Shane Steichen era, the Indianapolis Colts aim to return to the playoffs.
The Colts revamped the defense this offseason, including the signing of cornerback Charvarius Ward to a three-year deal to be the CB1.
There was no clear answer as to who would be opposite Ward, with multiple players fighting for the spot.
Third-round selection Justin Walley has been getting snaps with the first team during training camp.
A reporter asked Colts head coach Shane Steichen about Walley getting snaps with the first team on the second day of training camp.
“He’s a pretty damn good player,” Steichen said. “He did some really good things in the spring. So, he’s gonna compete at that spot. That’s why you saw him out there.”
Ward complimented the rookie on receiving first-team reps with the Colts and what he’s seen on the field.
“The coaches like what they see out of Walley,” Ward said. “He was going with the ones today. I mean, that’s a good thing for him. Good thing for us. He’s balling as a young guy. He’s only going to get better with more and more reps. Hopefully, he can help us this year.”
“I like Walley, though. He’s not scared. He’s a young guy. Pretty confident in himself, believes in himself and that’s what I like about him a lot. He’s not scared of anybody; he’s not scared of a challenge. I look forward to working with my young buck.”
Learning After a Pro Bowler
GettyIndianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore
Walley said that he modeled his game after Colts corner Kenny Moore. Now, the pair will be teammates.
Moore is a former Pro Bowler and will get to guide the rookie in Indianapolis.
“I think that’s cool,” Moore said about Walley modeling his game after him. “Aside from the X’s and O’s, just being a role model, just being a good guy. Being the guy that someone else can look up to is always a dream come true.”
“It’s cool to hear him say that. It makes me feel old because he said he’s been watching me for X amount of years. But it’s good to share the floor with him and I’m able to learn from him as well.”
Moore was a Pro Bowler for the Colts back in the 2021-22 season. With Moore teaching the third-round pick, Walley can elevate his game from a role model.
Cornerback Room
GettyIndianapolis Colts cornerback JuJu Brents
Shane Steichen said the second cornerback option is currently in competition.
Alongside Justin Walley competing for the job, there are other options for new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
JuJu Brents is returning from an injury, Jaylon Jones is entering his third season after recording 100 tackles in his second year, and the Colts signed Corey Ballentine to a one-year deal.
Walley got off to a good start in training camp, receiving first-team reps. If he is able to continue, he could cement himself as CB2 entering his rookie season.
Colts fans will get to see their first action of Walley on Aug. 7 against the Baltimore Ravens.
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