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WESTFIELD, Ind. – Indianapolis Colts rookie Sam Ehlinger closed the gap against Jacob Eason to become the team’s starting quarterback if Carson Wentz isn’t ready for the start of the regular season.
Ehlinger, who was selected in the sixth round of this year’s draft, shared first-team training snaps with Eason in training on Tuesday, and will continue to do so in joint practices Thursday and Friday against the Panthers. from Carolina.
“Against the Panthers in the game [on Sunday], I won’t try to break up like that, “said coach Frank Reich.” We’ll just let one guy go. Jacob will probably start and Sam will probably come every time. “
Reich said Eason was in the ‘driver’s seat’ to be the starter in Wentz’s absence on the day the team announced the quarterback would be out five to 12 weeks after undergoing foot surgery left on August 2. But a sign of potential change has occurred. after practice on Saturday, when Reich said Eason was the right starter “right now” three times when answering a question.
Eason, who didn’t take a slam in a game last season after being selected in the fourth round of the 2020 Draft, has a strong arm, but he has been inconsistent in his decisions with the ball, often holding him in for too long. the pocket. He has shown flashes of improvement but not to the level where the Colts feel completely comfortable with him if necessary.
“The competition is great,” said Eason. “Every job has competition, especially in training camp. In the quarterback we have a great relationship, but we’re still competitive. Competition brings better results. I’m all about it. “
Ehlinger left Texas second in school history for career achievements (923), passing yards (11,436) and passing touchdowns (94). What Ehlinger lacks in arm strength he made up for in his ability to read a defense and be decisive in knowing where he wants to go with the ball, which has impressed the team so far. Colts coaches at training camp.
“Sam is playing very smart, he has very good instincts,” said Reich. “Very quick on his feet. Speeds up his vision, good progresses, has class. Definitely athletic and can play with his feet… Sam has been really good, solid every day. Just changing them, you don’t feel like you’re losing a lot to Jacob having reps with both. More about having an opportunity for Sam. “
Eason and Ehlinger shared the snaps on Tuesday with Wentz making his first appearance since his Aug. 2 surgery. The good news for the Colts was that Wentz watched training in sneakers while walking without a limp. The team hopes to have a better indication of where Wentz is in terms of rehabilitation after crossing the postoperative two-week mark.
“Very encouraging,” said Reich. “I joked with Carson on a 7v7, I said ‘You’re up.’ Nice to have him there again. “
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