Well that escalated quickly.
Former Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger was widely viewed as a developmental quarterback at the professional level. In fact, many NFL draft analysts mentioned that his best case scenario would be to become a backup quarterback.
After the Indianapolis Colts selected Ehlinger in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft, the rookie was expected to compete with Jacob Eason to become Carson Wentz’s primary backup.
However, Wentz went down with a foot injury early in training camp and is expected to be sidelined through the first few weeks of the season. Ehlinger quickly stepped up and the team appeared to rally around him.
Several Indianapolis reporters have tabbed the former Longhorn as the more consistent quarterback throughout practices, and his impressive last week of performances has now earned him first team reps.
Jacob Eason will start Sunday’s preseason game against Carolina. BUT he will split 1st team snaps with Sam Ehlinger in the joint practices vs. the Panthers on Thursday and Friday, coach Frank Reich said
— Mike Wells (@MikeWellsNFL) August 10, 2021
Eason is considered the favorite to land the starting role during Wentz’s absence, but the second-year player hasn’t thrown an NFL pass yet, much like Ehlinger. The Colts’ three preseason games will be telling for both Ehlinger and Eason’s future in Indianapolis.
It’s still certainly possible, and arguably likely, that the Colts could bring in another veteran quarterback to fill the void. However, it appears they’ll wait to see how the two young quarterbacks perform through a couple of preseason games.
It’s hard to root against a player like Ehlinger who consistently showcases his competitive nature, effort and resiliency.