Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sam Womack took on his largest workload this past week against the Pittsburgh Steelers and had his best performance.
Womack was on the field for 56 snaps on Sunday, 38 of which came in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus. However, despite all that playing time, Womack was targeted only twice, surrendering just one reception for 12 yards.
PFF also credited Womack with a pass breakup and the quarterback’s passer rating when targeting him was only 68.8. For what it’s worth, out of 101 eligible cornerbacks in Week 4, Womack had the 15th highest defensive grade as well
Womack arrived to Indianapolis just over a month ago. A former 2022 fifth-round selection by San Francisco, Womack was released by the 49ers during roster cutdowns. The Colts would then claim Womack on waivers.
Womack had played 234 snaps with the 49ers in his first two seasons, spending time in both the slot and on the boundary. Originally with the Colts, having Womack play out of the nickel seemed to be the plan, however, with JuJu Brents being placed on injured reserve and the cornerback depth being tested, the team had to pivot.
In Weeks 2 and 3, Womack would get the start opposite of Jaylon Jones on the boundary, but he and Dallis Flowers would essentially split playing time each week. But in Week 4, that game plan changed with Womack seeing 56 defensive snaps and Flowers only 14.
Given Womack’s performance against the Steelers, he may have secured that starting spot moving forward.
Womack’s ability to play well will provided needed stability to a position group that very much needs it. At the moment, the team is still without Kenny Moore in the nickel, who missed this past week’s game and is yet to practice this week.