Hunter Wohler updated his health last week ahead of OTAs. Now the Indianapolis Colts are fully back in swing, and Wohler is still easing into things. After suffering a season-ending injury last season for the Colts very early into the season, he had to adjust to working on rehab and getting back for 2026. He's almost there now. When asked if he was 100%, he said, "Almost, we're getting there. We're real close."
That's great news for the former Badger safety and, of course, for the Colts. He was a breakout star in camp last season, and there was an expectation that he would be a major part of the defensive scheme. Then things came crashing down on a fluke play against the Green Bay Packers.
Now where does he fit on the depth chart? Is he expected to be a breakout star in his second season?
Indianapolis Colts' Hunter Wohler On Return: 'We're Getting There. We're Real Close' pic.twitter.com/vCwlsCCUyU
— Jake Arthur (@JakeArthurNFL) May 11, 2026
Hunter Wohler is expected to compete for the strong safety spot on the Colts
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Wohler had a clear path to be the starting safety last season after injuries and depth chart movement. He was also penciled into the starting strong safety spot for this upcoming season ahead of the NFL Draft. Then the Colts drafted safety A.J. Haulcy in the third round. That muddies the thing, as a third-round pick is expected to have a decent role if not a starting spot.
Now, it appears that Wohler and Haulcy will compete for a spot, and the odd man out will play backup and special teams. Cam Bynum is written into the free safety spot with a permanent marker. He was signed last offseason from the Minnesota Vikings and started in all 17 games for the Colts in his first season in Indianapolis.
So, Wohler, when he's fully recovered, will have to outperform third-round pick Haulcy to get the starting spot. There is still excitement for what Wohler can bring to the team, even if it's just on special teams and as a backup safety/defensive back. He could even play a little bit of linebacker.
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