Training camp for the Indianapolis Colts kicks off in about a month, so as part of our preview of what’s to come, we will be evaluating each positional battle that is expected to unfold.
What took place during offseason programs laid the foundation for each of these competitions and provided us with some insights into where things may stand. That said, how training camp and the preseason unfold will ultimately determine who wins these roles.
Next up is the cornerback position.
What Colts’ training camp battle is taking place at cornerback?
What we know is that Charvarius Ward and Sauce Gardner will be starting outside with Justin Walley at the nickel. After that, just about every other spot on the depth chart seems to be up for grabs.
With teams typically keeping five or six cornerbacks on the depth chart, that leaves two to three roster spots up for grabs. Presumably competing for these roles are Mekhi Blackmon, Cameron Mitchell, Jaylon Jones, Johnathan Edwards, and Cam Taylor-Britt.
What we know about this position battle
Blackmon played over 700 defensive snaps last season. Mitchell capitalized on the opportunities that came his way, while Taylor-Britt has experience playing in Lou Anarumo’s defense.
Jones was a starter in 2024, but navigated injuries last year and didn’t seem to establish himself in Anarumo’s scheme.
From the sounds of it, of this group, Edwards was one of the standout performers during offseason programs. Jake Arthur of Rountable Sports noted that Edwards saw “a ton of action” and had “several pass breakups.”
Prediction: Who makes the roster at cornerback?
My early prediction is that Blackmon, Edwards, and Mitchell make the roster. Blackmon offers experienced depth, while Edwards appears to be an ascending player. I went with Mitchell because of his upside and what he showed last year. I’d rather take a swing on potential with the sixth and final roster spot than have a veteran fill that role.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts training camp battles: Who earns final roster spots at cornerback?
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
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By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
