With OTAs underway for the Indianapolis Colts, second-year cornerback Justin Walley is back on the practice field. He missed his entire rookie year with a knee injury.
Walley has been cleared to return to the practice field for about three weeks now.
“I learned that I’m more mentally tough than I thought I was,” Walley said on Wednesday. “Never really been challenged in my life with injuries before, so it’s a new challenge in my life, but I overcame it and I’m better now.”
Although Walley was unable to get the on-field reps last season, he is very well-versed with the Colts’ defensive playbook and feels better than he did at this time last year, despite coming off a major injury.
“I was talking to the trainers the other day,” said Walley, “I feel better than at this point last year. My strength went up in both my legs. Overall, I feel better in my whole body.”
Prior to his injury last summer, Walley had put together a strong showing throughout training camp, making it difficult for Lou Anarumo to keep him off the field.
The Colts have remained bullish about Walley since then. He will presumably take over as the team’s starting nickel defender following Kenny Moore’s release.
“Just come in there, be detailed, do my job, have fun, and bring some energy,” Walley said.
Walley came to the NFL with strong ball production at the college level, and he was quite stingy in coverage, allowing a completion rate of 53% over four seasons, according to PFF. The Colts also appreciate the competitive juice he brings to the defense and his instincts.
“I feel like my football knowledge is high enough that I can play inside and outside,” Walley added. “So I have the ability to cover smaller guys and bigger guys, that really helps me do both.”
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts CB Justin Walley discusses return to practice field after injury
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
