Justin

Walley

It’s an awful blow for a player Indianapolis media believed was on track to earn a starting job opposite Charvarius Ward. Although it forces the Colts to tap into already questionable cornerback depth, it’s a far worse development for the player, who will already be 23 in September. He will hope for a speedy recovery and that his Day 2 draft pedigree gives him the inside track to a spot on Indy’s 2026 53-man roster.

A four-year starter at Minnesota, Walley (5’10/190) brings extensive experience (42 starts) and ball production (34 PBUs) to the table, finishing top five in school history in passes defended. Walley graded out consistently in PFF’s coverage metrics, earning a 76.7 in 2023 and 76.2 in 2022 while seeing 55+ targets each of his last three years. His sticky mirror-match footwork from press coverage helped him cling to bigger targets on the outside, but his 5-foot-10 frame and average burst (32” vert, 5.97 RAS) could prompt a move inside. He boasts excellent route recognition and plays with the urgency to dart downhill and disrupt the run, though his physicality can lead to flags — his grabby play style and handsy reps drew concern from scouts. Despite lacking ideal size or elite testing, Walley’s toughness, competitiveness, and savvy zone eyes make him an intriguing selection as a slot corner with special teams upside.