Hunter Wohler’s NFL journey was starting to look like something straight out of a Hollywood script. The former Wisconsin Badger safety, known for his hard-hitting style and relentless motor, was turning heads in training camp and preseason with the Indianapolis Colts. But just as the momentum was building, disaster struck.
After posting a team-high nine tackles against the Baltimore Ravens in his preseason debut, Wohler looked like a young star on the rise. His instincts, toughness, and versatility made him one of the Colts’ most exciting rookies. Then, during Saturday’s matchup with the Green Bay Packers, the Wisconsin native’s night came to a screeching halt.
Wohler limped off in the first quarter after just two tackles, sidelined by a foot injury that immediately sparked concern. What made it sting even more? He was already filling in for an injured Nick Cross, meaning the Colts had gone from thin to thinner at safety in the blink of an eye.
A Rookie Who Refused to Be Overlooked
Wohler wasn’t supposed to be here — at least not in the eyes of NFL scouts. Drafted in the seventh round back in April, he entered camp as a longshot just fighting for a roster spot. But anyone who followed his Wisconsin career knew he was built differently. A gritty, hard-nosed player with the ability to play both safety and linebacker, Wohler brought versatility that coaches love.
And he proved it on the field. His standout debut against Baltimore showcased exactly why the Colts have been buzzing about him. He wasn’t just making tackles — he was flying all over the field, looking like a seasoned veteran rather than a rookie battling the odds. Suddenly, the idea of Wohler being more than just a depth piece became very real.
Colts Need Him More Than Ever
Now, his injury throws a cloud of uncertainty over what was shaping up to be a breakout preseason. The Colts’ defense has been ravaged by injuries already, and Wohler’s ability to line up at multiple positions was becoming a crucial asset. Coaches had been penciling him in for special teams work and even rotational snaps on defense — a rare honor for a seventh-round pick.
Losing him for any length of time would be a massive setback, not only for Wohler’s personal dream but also for a Colts team desperate for healthy playmakers.
A Story Still Being Written
For now, all fans can do is wait and hope the injury isn’t serious. Wohler has already shown he belongs in the league, and the Colts love the energy and edge he brings. If he can shake this setback, don’t be surprised if Hunter Wohler’s name is one you hear a lot more this season — both as a defensive weapon and a special teams difference-maker.
Because one thing’s for certain: this Badger doesn’t back down from a fight.
