The Indianapolis Colts placed rookie safety Hunter Wohler on injured reserve on Monday, ending his 2025 season.
In addition to Wohler, the Colts also placed offensive tackle Blake Freeland and linebacker Jacob Phillips on IR. In corresponding moves, the team signed cornerback Xavien Howard, linebacker Joseph Vaughn and former Wisconsin Badger linebacker Jake Chaney.
Wohler had been one of the Colts’ training camp standouts after joining the team as a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft. He tallied a team-leading nine tackles during its preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens, plus recorded several highlight interceptions off superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson during the preceding week’s joint practice. The former Wisconsin standout was in the lineup to start the Colts’ preseason contest against the Green Bay Packers, though he left the first drive with what is now clearly a major foot injury. As noted, the Colts placing Wohler on injured reserve rules him out for the entire 2025 season.
Given his trajectory during training camp, Wohler should have a roster spot locked up entering the 2026 season. Badger fans will have to wait until then to see the team captain and multi-year starter make his impact at the NFL level. He concluded his four-year Wisconsin career with 229 tackles, 12 for loss, two sacks, three interceptions and 13 pass deflections. His best season came as a junior in 2023: 120 tackles, six for loss, one sack, two interception and six pass deflections.
Wohler’s move to the IR opened up a roster spot for Chaney, who now has a limited time to make a strong impression and earn a practice squad contract. If he can stick with the team, the Colts may soon battle the Pittsburgh Steelers for the most former Badgers on their roster. They’re already set to enter the year with running back Jonathan Taylor and center Tanor Bortolini in starting roles.
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