Colts' 2025 Draft Pick Poised for Comeback in 2026

Cornerback Justin Walley's return from injury could bolster Indianapolis' secondary.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:39am

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The Indianapolis Colts are eagerly anticipating the return of cornerback Justin Walley, their 2025 third-round draft pick, who missed his entire rookie season due to an ACL injury suffered during training camp. Walley's versatility and ability to play man coverage are seen as a great fit for the Colts' defensive scheme, and he had been a standout performer during the 2025 offseason programs and training camp before the injury. With the Colts dealing with numerous injuries at cornerback last season, Walley's comeback could provide a significant boost to the team's secondary in 2026, especially when paired with other key players like Sauce Gardner and Charvarius Ward.

Why it matters

The Colts' secondary was plagued by injuries in 2025, so the return of a promising young cornerback like Justin Walley could be a game-changer for the unit in 2026. Walley's skill set and fit in the team's defensive scheme make him a valuable asset, and his comeback could help solidify the Colts' pass defense as they look to improve on their performance from the previous season.

The details

Walley, the Colts' third-round pick in 2025, had been positioning himself to potentially secure a starting role at cornerback opposite Charvarius Ward before suffering an ACL injury during training camp that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. The Colts added Sauce Gardner during the season, and Ward is still under contract, although his future in the NFL seems uncertain. Having Walley back in the mix, along with Cam Bynum at safety, gives the Colts what should be a very good secondary.

  • Walley suffered the ACL injury during 2025 training camp.
  • Walley missed the entire 2025 NFL season due to the injury.
  • Walley is expected to return to the field for the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Justin Walley

A cornerback drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, who missed his entire rookie season due to an ACL injury.

Charvarius Ward

A cornerback currently under contract with the Indianapolis Colts, although his future with the team is uncertain.

Sauce Gardner

A cornerback added by the Indianapolis Colts during the 2025 NFL season.

Cam Bynum

A safety for the Indianapolis Colts.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts.

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What they’re saying

“I've been here grinding six days a week, continue to grind the same way for the next couple months, and by the time the fall, back on the turf, I'll be ready to go.”

— Justin Walley (Colts.com)

What’s next

The Colts will monitor Walley's progress during the offseason and into training camp, with the goal of having him fully healthy and ready to contribute to the team's secondary in the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The return of Justin Walley, the Colts' 2025 third-round draft pick, could provide a significant boost to the team's secondary in 2026. Walley's versatility and ability to play man coverage are seen as a great fit for the Colts' defensive scheme, and his comeback from an ACL injury could help solidify the team's pass defense as they look to improve on their performance from the previous season.