Indianapolis Colts’ starting cornerback Jaylon Jones was carted off the field with a non-contact injury in Tuesday’s practice, per WISHTV reporter Angela Moryan.
Jones’ injury has been classified as a hamstring injury by Colts head coach Shane Steichen. This can have lasting effects on any player’s season, but especially a cornerback.
Jones entered training camp competing for the second cornerback spot opposite free agent addition Charvarius Ward, a competition that could leave Jones behind if he misses too much time. With new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo needing to install his highly complex defensive scheme over the next couple of months, missing key practice time could make it difficult for Jones to understand his role when Week One arrives.
Jones has the most starting experience of those competing for the spot, having started 10 games as a rookie in 2023 and all 17 in 2024. A seventh-round pick two seasons ago, the arrow seemed to be pointing up for Jones heading into training camp, as he showed steady improvement from his 2023 to 2024 season.
If he can get back on the field before the end of training camp, Jones has a chance to continue that trend. However, given how sensitive hamstring injuries can be for cornerbacks, it’s unlikely that his recovery will be, or should be, a quick one.
Jones was added to the injury report today along with fellow contender for the second cornerback spot, Juju Brents, although the latter's injury is reportedly less severe. Brents was drafted five rounds earlier than Jones in the 2023 draft, but his injuries over the past two seasons have limited him to playing in just 11 of 34 possible games.
These developments present an opportunity for starting reps to Colts’ 2025 third-round pick, Justin Walley. Walley has garnered significant buzz all offseason to potentially claim that outside spot, and his recent performance in training camp has only furthered those high expectations. With the injuries to Jones and Brents, the door appears open for Walley to assume the starting role in 2025.
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