The Indianapolis Colts were extremely high on Justin Walley this offseason. They didn't even bat an eye at parting ways with Kenny Moore II, knowing that Walley would be fully healthy and ready to take on that slot corner role.
Walley was the talk of the hour in training camp. He hadn't played in well over a year after missing his rookie season with an injury, but he was reportedly looking sharp at nickel next to Sauce Gardner and Charvarius Ward.
But after two games, that hasn't seemed to be the case for the former Minnesota star. He's been picked on time and time again, and the Colts may not have much of a choice but to have him ride the pine.
The Indianapolis Colts officially have a Justin Walley problem
Through two games, Walley has given up 10 catches on as many targets for 147 yards (14.7 yards per target) and two touchdowns. He's allowed 75 yards after the catch, missing 21.4 percent of his tackles, with quarterbacks logging a 158.3 passer rating when going against him.
He's always a step behind crafty slot receivers, and while there should be no shame in struggling to contain Zay Flowers, he just couldn't stay close to anybody the Chiefs threw at him. Travis Kelce, Tyquan Thornton, Rashee Rice, and Xavier Worthy -- they all ate when Walley was around.
Admittedly, the Colts don't have many options at the position. Cam Bynum has played big nickel in certain packages and situations, but asking him to be the full-time slot cornerback would only hurt the secondary by moving him from his preferred spot.
The Colts could rotate between Walley, Kapena Gushiken, and Jonathan Owens until they find a formula that works for them. Clearly, bringing back Moore, as good as he is, isn't an option because he's not a fit for the system.
This team desperately needs to find some answers on defense. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo should be worried about his job security after a 0-2 start to the season and getting absolutely torched in the first two games of the season.
And while blaming all on an inexperienced player coming off a long injury layoff is unfair and inaccurate, it's impossible to deny that Walley deserves a big share of the blame for such an underwhelming start to the campaign.
Maybe moving him from the boundary to the slot was a mistake, and while he won't play over Gardner or Ward, having him slide back outside will be what he needs to get his legs back under him. Whatever the case, this team must evaluate its options at nickelback.
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