A former Wisconsin Badgers defensive leader has impressed early in the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts throughout preseason camp.
Hunter Wohler, a former top safety and team captain for the Badgers, was selected by the Colts in the seventh round of the NFL draft. Wohler had for the most part been written off and was not considered to be a top safety in the draft after his production dipped in his final season with Wisconsin. The safety was drafted, but had been considered a development player that would need time before hitting the field.
The 6-foot-2-inch, 213-pound safety has turned things around, however, and with his performances throughout camp, the team is very impressed. The Colts staff sees potential in a hybrid linebacker/safety position for Wohler and the athlete could find a role in such a position during the upcoming season.
Former Wisconsin Badgers Safety Hunter Wohler Considered ‘Gem’ Despite Final Round Selection
Wohler was initially a depth selection for the Colts staff who also selected Justin Walley, a defensive back from Minnesota, in the third round. However, Wohler has impressed with his physicality, football intelligence, and ability to be in the right place at the right time. The versatility of Wohler has caused the staff to essentially assign Wohler to a hybrid position throughout camp.
Thus far, the safety has impressed in his role after dominating a joint practice with the Baltimore Ravens. Wohler recorded an interception as a safety and an interception as a linebacker against the Ravens during practice, highlighting his versatility and elite football IQ at multiple defensive positions.
While Wohler has impressed thus far, the road ahead for the safety will be a difficult one as the Colts have plenty of talent on the roster.
Wohler is currently battling against linebacker Jacob Phillips and safeties Rodney Thomas II and Trey Washington. Phillips does not have any experience as a safety, but the coverage linebacker is an option as an extra man in coverage when the Colts need to do so. The easiest avenue for Wohler to hit the field is as a substitute linebacker or an additional defensive back in specific packages, which is a need Phillips could also fill.
As a safety, Wohler could find his way onto the field this season but will need to fend off Thomas II and Washington to do so. Washington shares the same play style of Wohler while providing a smaller, thicker frame. Thomas II, however, is another tall safety with great speed and excellent hips making for a versatile coverage defender.
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