A former Wisconsin Badgers defensive back impressed in his professional debut in the NFL for the Indianapolis Colts.
Hunter Wohler, a former captain and standout defender for Wisconsin, was drafted in the seventh-round of the NFL draft this year by the Colts in a move that surprised many. Wohler had previously been one of the most productive tacklers in the secondary across college football, but saw his draft stock drop after injuries slowed down his production.
The Colts snuck in and selected Wohler after the defensive back was previously considered to be a capable NFL prospect, thus ending his dramatic draft slide and giving the prospect a home. Since his selection and subsequent signing, Wohler has thoroughly impressed the staff with his physicality and awareness on the field in a hybrid linebacker/safety role for the team.
Former Wisconsin Badgers Standout Hunter Wohler Carving Out New Role With Indianapolis Colts
The defensive back has had great days as a safety in practice and great days as a linebacker, thus presenting great versatility and value to the Colts, who are in need of talent across the board. Recently during joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, Wohler has made a handful of solo open field tackles along with two notable interceptions in two different positions leading up to the preseason game.
During his on field debut, Wohler put together one of the strongest performances between either team with nine total tackles and six solo tackles which also happened to lead the Colts defense. Wohler also looked physically prepared to play at the NFL level after landing solo tackles with ease against larger players.
While the tests have only been practice and preseason games for Wohler thus far, the defensive back has put together a great showing which could put him into position to produce during the regular season. The Colts initially added Wohler as depth but has outperformed expectations the staff previously placed.
Since receiving a four-year contract from the Colts, the former Wisconsin Badgers safety has moved up the depth chart and is currently considered to be the backup strong safety. Wohler outperformed rookies Trey Washington and Ladarius Tennison alongside Marcel Dabo for the backup spot which could turn into a very specific role for the defensive back. Wohler offers such great physicality alongside his intelligence and awareness that the Colts may utilize the defensive back as a substitute linebacker or a package specific player.
Should Wohler continue to perform during the preseason, then the defensive back could certain make a case for a larger role within the defense. The Colts have already been impressed, however, and could wait until Wohler has the chance to prove himself on the field during a regular season game before making such a decision.
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