​Our Indianapolis Colts training camp is about a month away, and as part of our preview, we’ll break down each positional battle that is likely to unfold. The offseason programs established the groundwork for these competitions and offered a glimpse into where things might stand, but how training camp and the preseason actually play out will ultimately decide who claims these roles. Next up: the safety position.
There are two notable competitions at safety, although one may end up becoming a clear-cut winner. The first dispute centers on the starting role beside Cam Bynum, with AJ Haulcy, Hunter Wohler, Jonathan Owens, and Juanyeh Thomas all in the mix to grab those snaps. Once the second starting safety is settled, the rest of the safety depth chart will begin to take shape. While the opportunities are there, Haulcy currently seems to be the most likely candidate to claim significant playing time.
ESPN’s Stephen Holder highlighted Haulcy’s early status, noting that the rookie safety is working “almost exclusively” with the first unit and stands as the “early favorite” to win the starting job. Lou Anarumo also spoke highly of Haulcy, praising him for “exceeding” expectations in those early stages of the offseason program. This level of praise and involvement with the first team suggests Haulcy is positioned to compete for the job from the outset.
As for the other three safeties, the picture is less clear. Based on what we know so far, Haulcy can be penciled in as the starter opposite Bynum. Beyond that, Wohler appears to be the best bet for the third safety on the depth chart due to his versatility. His ability to contribute on the field in defensive-back-heavy formations while also offering run-support prowess makes him a valuable multi-role option. That versatility could keep him on the field in a variety of packages and alignments.
This leaves Owens and Thomas primarily in special teams roles to start. While both are likely to make the 53-man roster based on current expectations, neither is a guaranteed lock. The Colts could move on from either player more easily if a different option emerges or if Indianapolis decides to carry only four safeties on the roster. The evolving depth chart will hinge on how each player develops through camp and the preseason, as well as how the coaching staff values situational roles and special-teams impact.
In sum, Haulcy stands as the frontrunner to start alongside Bynum, with Wohler as the probable third safety due to his flexibility and coverage traits. Owens and Thomas figure to contribute on special teams and compete for roster spots, but their status could shift if new developments arise during camp or if the Colts decide to adjust their safety depth. This offseason-to-camp transition will sculpt the ultimate loser in the starting competition and determine how the safety unit takes shape for the upcoming season. This recap originally appeared on Colts Wire as part of their coverage of Colts training camp battles and safety-position evaluations for better SEO.