Report: Indianapolis Colts bench Matt Ryan, Sam Ehlinger to start moving forward

The Colts are taking Matt Ryan out of the starting lineup, turning to former Texas star Sam Ehlinger to be their quarterback moving forward.

Following another disappointing loss with the season teetering on lost, Indianapolis made the decision on Monday to give Ehlinger the keys to the car.

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“Per source, Colts benching Matt Ryan, turning to Sam Ehlinger,” tweeted Mike Chappell. “Sam makes 1st career start Sunday vs. Washington. Nick Foles will be No. 2.”

Moreover, Ehlinger has never started an NFL game, but the Colts are entrusting him to get the job done for them over the veteran Ryan. Indianapolis acquired the former NFL MVP via trade with the Atlanta Falcons during the offseason, while Ehlinger was selected with the No. 218 overall pick during the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

As a rookie last season, Ehlinger appeared in three games for the Colts and rushed the ball three times. He hasn’t thrown an NFL pass.

Moreover, after NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport added that Ryan is dealing with a Grade 2 shoulder separation, Zak Keefer of The Athletic revealed that the move isn’t simply motivated by injury, it was happening regardless.

“To clarify: the Colts are making the switch at QB regardless of Matt Ryan’s injury,” tweeted Keefer. “The plan, as of now, is for Sam Ehlinger to be the starting quarterback the rest of the season.”

Regardless, the former Longhorns leader could provide a jolt to the Colts offense, as his mobility will add an extra layer to the team’s attack.

Many never expected Sam Ehlinger to have a chance to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, but the Colts are giving him just that — how far it goes is up to him and his play moving forward.