Recent transactions suggest considerable injuries to Colts secondary

The Colts secondary has been hit with an injury bug. 

Cornerbacks Jaylon Jones and JuJu Brents have both recently picked up hamstring injuries in training camp and while there’s nothing to definitively say they will both endure prolonged absences, the Colts’ recent transactions suggest they could both miss decent time. 

On Thursday, the team placed cornerback David Long Jr. on injured reserve, ending his 2025 season. They also signed cornerbacks Duke Shelley and Tre Herndon to deals. 

In addition to the two veteran signings, Indy also worked out four more veteran cornerbacks. According to Aaron Wilson, Keion Crossen, Thomas Graham, Michael Ojemudia and Chris Lammons all worked out for the Colts. 

No deal is imminent for any of the four, but combined with the earlier signings, it’s clear the Colts are working comprehensively to ensure their secondary has depth. 

The defensive backs have been the strongest position group in Lou Anarumo’s defensive unit through the first week of training camp in Indianapolis. New signings Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum in particular have transformed the unit from a season ago.

But Brents and Jones were both flashing as well. In the competition for the third cornerback spot, the pair of 2023 draft picks and this year’s third-round choice, Justin Walley, have been going toe-to-toe. Missing extensive time could prove costly for both, especially if Walley continues to prove his worth. 

While there is no timetable for either of Brents or Jones to get back on the field, hamstring injuries are tricky. The work Indy has done to supplement the cornerback position in their absences hints at them both being off the field longer than originally anticipated.