The Indianapolis Colts selected Justin Walley in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Could the rookie cornerback be a starter as a rookie?
Paul Bretl of Colts Wire wrote an article, projecting Indy’s starting defense in 2025. He listed Walley as a starter:
“Cornerback: Charvarius Ward, Kenny Moore, Justin Walley”
Perhaps I’m getting ahead of myself here, but Walley received a lot of high praise during offseason programs from both teammates and coaches for his play. Jaylon Jones would miss time due to a “soft tissue injury,” and I’m not sure what to expect from JuJu Brents, who has missed significant time during his first two seasons.”
It remains to be seen whether Justin Walley will start in 2025. But it’s certainly not impossible.
Colts Rookie Justin Walley is Projected as a Starter in 2025
His Career Thus Far
Justn Walley attended D’Iberville High School in D’Iberville, Mississippi. During his senior year, he recorded 55 tackles, two interceptions, and two blocked kicks. He also led the school to a 10-1 record and a Region 4-6A title. He was named Class 6A Mississippi Mr. Football.
Walley then went to the University of Minnesota. As a freshman, he played all 13 games and started the final six. He had 29 tackles, seven pass breakups, one interception, and recovered two fumbles. He was named to the 247Sports True Freshman All-American team.
Walley started all 13 games in 2022. He recorded 39 tackles (28 solo), three interceptions, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
As a junior, Walley made 45 tackles (39 solo), had two tackles for loss, and broke up eight passes. Last season, he had 42 tackles (two tackles for loss, one sack, and 10 passes breakups. He also had two interceptions, which he returned for a total of 102 yards.
Will He Start in 2025?
Kenny Moore II is a lock to start at the slot cornerback spot. Charvarius Ward, who the Colts signed this offseason, will also be a starter. But who will win the starting cornerback role opposite Ward?
Jaylon Jones, JuJu Brents, and Justin Walley will compete for the job. Don’t be surprised if Walley is the guy. Sure, he wasn’t expected to be drafted as high as he was. Yet, he could prove that he’s one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft. While Walley is undersized (5-10, 190 pounds), he provides 4.4 speed and much-needed competitive fire to the Colts’ secondary.
In addition, Walley’s versatility will help him play different roles for the defense. Area scout Tyler Hughes talked about that via Indy Star:
“You’re going to get some versatility with him. He’s smart, competitive, tough, instinctive. I think he showcased that throughout his entire career, went up against some good receivers in his Big Ten career. And then he goes to the Combine, and performing everything with the cast on, you don’t see that. It’s not common nowadays. It shows you what type of player he is.”
This offseason, Colts general manager Chris Ballard has done a great job addressing the secondary. He added free agents Ward and safety Camryn Bynum. And perhaps the drafting of Justin Walley will turn out to be a phenomenon move as well.
Main Image: Grace Hollars – Imagn Images
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