The Indianapolis Colts added depth to their defensive backfield Friday, selecting Minnesota cornerback Justin Walley with the 80th overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Walley, 22, played four seasons at Minnesota. The 5-foot-10, 190-pound defensive back appeared in 49 games, starting 42. He finished his college career with seven interceptions, 27 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and 155 total tackles.
During his time with the Gophers, Walley earned multiple honors. He was named a Freshman All-American in 2021 and later received Honorable Mention All-Big Ten recognition in 2023 before being named Second-Team All-Big Ten in 2024.
In his final college season, Walley set a career high with 12 passes defensed. He also recorded a 32-yard interception return for a touchdown against Maryland. Opposing quarterbacks held a 54.0 passer rating when targeting him in coverage during 2024, according to Pro Football Focus.
Walley played primarily outside cornerback at Minnesota. The D'Iberville, Miss., native also earned Academic All-Big Ten honors twice.
At the NFL Combine earlier this year, Walley ran a 4.40-second 40-yard dash. His measurables included a 30 3/4-inch arm length and 10-inch hands.
Scouting reports noted Walley's speed, instincts, and willingness as a tackler near the line of scrimmage. His aggressive style against the run earned attention. tw: https://t.co/HNd3XGU4ec
He also showed burst as a blitzer from the slot. tw: https://t.co/mhspOXUYSe
Walley demonstrated quickness breaking on the ball and the speed to carry routes downfield in coverage. tw: https://t.co/rUqM4fhYyB However, some analysts pointed to a need for more consistent wrap-up tackling and occasional grabby play in coverage. Size was cited as a potential factor that could project him to a slot role in the NFL. tw: https://t.co/u0cDcyxVN9
Mock drafts varied on Walley's projection, with some placing him in the later rounds. The Pittsburgh Steelers were among teams reportedly showing interest, including a pre-draft visit. The Colts ultimately selected him earlier than some projections indicated.
Walley joins a Colts cornerback group that includes Charvarius Ward, Kenny Moore II, Jaylon Jones, JuJu Brents, Sam Womack III, and Corey Ballentine.
