Following the blockbuster trade that involved sending quarterback Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders, the Indianapolis Colts will be searching for a new starter.
While the Colts will consider their options via trade, free agency and the 2022 NFL draft, there’s another name that is likely to be in the mix as the starter under center in Indy: Sam Ehlinger.
The 2021 sixth-round pick didn’t see any meaningful snaps during his rookie season but spent the majority of it as the backup to Wentz. According to Zak Keefer of The Athletic, Ehlinger will get some consideration as the starter for 2022.
“The Colts will certainly look to upgrade, via free agency or the draft, limited as their options might be. But, according to one source, don’t rule out Ehlinger getting a chance at the starting job.”
The Colts fell in love with Ehlinger during the pre-draft process. As limited as his game is as a passer, they’ve lauded his mental toughness above everything. Every time the Colts talk about Ehlinger, they speak of the “it” factor he possesses.
Whether that will be enough to get him the starting spot will be something to watch for. Ehlinger can have all of the leadership traits in the world but if he can’t consistently play well at quarterback, his leash as a starter won’t be long.
The more likely approach is that the Colts will either trade for a veteran like Jimmy Garoppolo, bring in a veteran from free agency or draft a rookie in April.
Ehlinger is likely to get his shot to compete for the starting role, but it’s unlikely the Colts are planning on him playing meaningful snaps in 2022 unless he has to.
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